When the Los Angeles Lakers acquired Steve Nash from the Phoenix Suns prior to the 2012-13 NBA season, there was great excitement about the team extending their championship window with Kobe Bryant, Pau Gasol and Metta World Peace.
Unfortunately, Nash only appeared in 65 games over two seasons and was forced to retire due to a back injury. As Nash still gets criticized for his brief stint in Los Angeles, he was the consummate professional and played a major role in Jordan Clarkson’s rookie season.
Despite being the No. 46 overall pick in the 2014 NBA Draft, Clarkson exceeded expectations and received NBA All-Rookie First team honors with the help of the former two-time MVP.