In Case You Missed It: Steve Nash to the Lakers: Why does it matter?

Steve Nash

It really doesn't matter nearly as much as the NBA press would lead you to believe.

For those out celebrating the 4th on Wednesday, you may have missed the news that the Phoenix Suns traded franchise cornerstone Steve Nash to the LA Lakers for 4 future draft picks.

And yes, as soon as it was announced, the NBA Writing world was swooning. Nash, who is about to turn 37-years old averaged 12.5 points and 10.7 assists last season. Sure, he will make the Lakers somewhat better than they were in 2012.

But not a lot.

At this point you are all saying "You are an idiot" "You don't know what you are talking about" "Just shut-up dude".

And to that I say: Think about it.

Nash is good, but he isn't the Nash of 2005. Or 2007. Like I said, he does make the Lakers better...but the problem is: He makes the Lakers OLDER.

Much OLDER.

Kobe will be 35 next season. And he has a LOT of mileage on him. Metta World Peace (crazy Ron) will be 34, Pau Gasol 33.

Yes, on talent alone, the Lakers will win a majority of their games. But Steve Nash will not make them better than Oklahoma City. Steve Nash will not make them better than San Antonio. Steve Nash will get them past the 1st round of the playoffs.

This is why we are amused at the fascination with having "Names" on your team. "Names" don't win titles, great players do. And when you get a "Name" late in their career, it is a complete and total crapshoot.

You might get the player that "Name" formerly was...or you might get a washed-up, wannabe version of the player they formerly were.

No way to know until the season gets late.