Former NBA champion comes to Steve Nash's defense: "If you put Steve Nash in Steve Kerr’s spot, I think he still get a ring"
Former NBA champion Nick Young recently defended Steve Nash, who parted ways with the Brooklyn Nets last week. While Nash has been criticized for being an underwhelming coach, Young expressed that he would have been successful in the right situation.
As Nash's former LA Lakers teammate in 2013-14 season, Young came to his aid on Gilbert Arenas' podcast:
"If you put Steve Nash in Steve Kerr’s spot, I think he still get a ring.
"I think he got on a team where KD and Kyrie are in a situation where they’re trying to find themselves mentally too — off the court more than on the court."
(from 3:58-4:25)
Despite having a talented superstar trio at his disposal, Nash failed to unlock the team's full potential. This led to a lot of criticism.
Golden State Warriors coach Steve Kerr said that Nash was dealt a bad hand with injuries and was in an unfavorable position to succeed.
Since being dismissed, Nash has since been succeeded by Jacque Vaughn. As interim head coach of the Nets, Vaughn has racked up a 2-1 record.
Brooklyn has reportedly set its sights on suspended Boston Celtics coach Ime Udoka.
Steve Nash continues to face criticism
While some in the basketball world have stood up for Steve Nash, the former two-time Most Valuable Player continues to face criticism from others. On "The Big Podcast with Shaq," NBA legend and Nash's former teammate, Shaquille O'Neal showed no remorse while discussing his dismissal.
(From 12:45-13:41)
Also read: Shaquille O'Neal shows no remorse for Steve Nash: “This year, you came in with all two-and-a-half superstars"
O'Neal said that Nash had "two and a half superstars" in Brooklyn. The inability to bring the best out of them, even with injuries considered, reflected poorly upon the coach.
O'Neal noted Nash' impressive 94-67 record as Nets coach. However, his lack of success in the playoffs had to be considered.
With an end to his term, it will be interesting to see how Nash's future as a basketball coach plays out.