Golden State Warriors Rumors: Steve Nash already making an Impact

By Cheri Cheng - 03 Oct '15 13:02PM

Steve Nash, who was hired by the Golden State Warriors, as a part-time consultant, is already making an impact on several key players.

"[Nash] has got so much to give and so much knowledge," general manager Bob Myers said. "There's just not enough that you can say about his demeanor and his professionalism. Obviously, he displayed a tremendous work ethic. It's hard to find people who others will listen to unequivocally. He's one of those people. The hope is that he can touch everybody."

Nash, who attended Friday's practice, worked on pick-and-roll and dribble-drag plays. He was brought in to work with Stephen Curry, Klay Thompson and Harrison Barnes.

"He was awesome," the interim head coach Luke Walton said. "He gave a lesson on what to look for and what to read and how to react to defenses. It was brilliant."

Steve Kerr, who is taking a leave of absence to heal his back, said, "I think he's one of the most innovative athletes I have ever seen when it comes to pursuing greatness, whether it's conditioning, basketball drills or whatever. He's got an amazing feel for the game and an amazing mind. Steve was the most efficient player I've ever been around, and my hope is that he can help make our guys more efficient. I think he will."

Kerr, who was supposed to be focused on rehabilitation, popped into practice to see how everything was going. Even though everyone was happy to see him, Nash reportedly urged him to rest.

"I feel really bad for him. Back issues are one thing, but with spinal issues and fluid, you're talking about the brain and energy levels and systems. That's scary stuff," Nash said. He's going through a tremendous amount right now, and I wouldn't wish that on anybody. If anybody can deal with it and cope with it, it's Steve, but I really think he's created an environment here that can run without him for a while. I think he should take as much time as he can, because it's very serious."

The two-time NBA Most Valuable Player will not work with the Warriors again until the defending NBA Champions play games in Sand Diego, Los Angeles and Anaheim from Oct. 17 to Oct. 22.