Steve Nash is playing at a level comparable to his back-to-back MVP seasons yet couldn’t even earn an All-Star nod.
The Suns point guard is averaging more points than he did in 2004-05, more assists than in 2005-06 and has a higher shooting percentage than both those seasons.
But Nash’s absence of a title, unorthodox style and subpar defense makes the point guard more of a target than some of his peers. But let’s not forget Nash has more MVPs than Kobe Bryant, will have more career assists than Isiah Thomas by the end of this season and is completely altering the perception of an aging point guard.
The Canadian celebrated his 37th birthday Monday. At this age, Magic Johnson, Oscar Robertson, Bob Cousy and Thomas were already retired. Nash seems like he’s got another three good seasons in him.
All-Star selections can be a popularity contest at times, often siding with veterans if statistics are similar. But Nash’s celebrity must not have the same pull as Tim Duncan, who made his 12th straight All-Star Game despite averaging career lows in points, rebounds and field goal percentage.
Nash is merely leading the Western Conference in assists while shooting a higher field goal percentage than any other point guard in the league.
Phoenix is currently feeling the effects of not re-signing Amar’e Stoudemire, and Nash is closing out his career on a team that lacks the talent around him to stay competitive. He’s already being penalized enough by the Suns’ front office. No need also to deem him unworthy of an All-Star bid, too.
