Injured Steve Nash says 'there is some improvement' from last year

Steve Nash hasn't practiced with the Lakers since exiting a preseason game last week and then tweaking his back carrying bags. 

Though, the 40-year-old said Saturday that his issues aren't as bad as last season.

"I expected things to happen. It's inevitable with everything I've gone through that there's going to be issues adapting back to the game," Nash said, according to ESPN LA's Baxter Holmes.

"On the other hand, I did get through seven or eight hard days well, which I didn't do last year. So there is some improvement, and if I can adapt continually once I heal up here, I'll be back on course."

"Eventually you've got to play; that's what we're here for," Nash added. "I've definitely had a struggle the last week, but I think I (need to) stay optimistic and see what I can do this week to get better and get back on the court."

Nash has missed 99 games over the last two seasons due to leg, back, and nerve issues, and the oldest active NBA player has already said that he believes this will be his last season.

Lakers coach Byron Scott said that the team was optimistic after seeing Nash in training camp. "He did look great, unbelievable shape, just moving up and down the floor with what seems like no hitch whatsoever," Scott said.

"Obviously everybody here is disappointed, nobody more disappointed than Steve Nash."

Scott added that while he doesn't know what the future holds for Nash, "The one thing I do know, like I said, in talking to him, [is] he wants to play. He wants to play badly."