Mike D'Antoni cites Steve Nash as key reason for joining Lakers
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 18, 2026, 3:46 AM
Last updated Aug 18, 2026
In a recent interview, former Lakers coach Mike D'Antoni revealed that his decision to take the Lakers coaching job was heavily influenced by the presence of Steve Nash on the roster. D'Antoni, who took over in 2012, believed that with Nash recovering from injury, they could build a successful team together. Nash faced significant injury setbacks during the 2012-13 season, which undermined the Lakers' aspirations. Despite a strong finish to the season, the team was eliminated in the first round of the playoffs and missed the postseason for six consecutive seasons afterward.
- •D'Antoni took the Lakers job in 2012 looking to coach Nash.
- •Nash initially struggled with injuries and played only 15 games in 2013-14.
- •Lakers were swept by Spurs in the first round of the 2013 playoffs.
- •Franchise missed playoffs for six years after the 2012-13 season.
- •D'Antoni resigned in 2014 after one additional season.
- 3:46 AMYahoo Sports — Mike D'Antoni says he took Lakers coaching job because of Steve Nash
"Former Lakers coach Mike D'Antoni admitted in a recent interview that he took the job because of the presence of Steve Nash.
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