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Steve Nash a game-time decision Sunday against San Antonio Spurs

Lakers guard Steve Nash in action against the Indiana Pacers on March 15. Nash has been sidelined since March 28 with hip and hamstring soreness
(Michael Conroy / Associated Press)
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With Kobe Bryant going down with a torn Achilles’ tendon, the Lakers need Steve Nash back in the lineup immediately -- but is he ready to play?

“It will be a game-time decision, I think,” Coach Mike D’Antoni said.

Nash has been sidelined since March 28 with hip and hamstring soreness that flared up in a loss to the Milwaukee Bucks. He tried to play the following night in Sacramento but couldn’t get through two minutes.

“He’s struggling a little bit,” said D’Antoni. “We’ll see tomorrow. As soon as he can he will [play], but we’re not going to push him.”

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The Lakers host the San Antonio Spurs on Sunday. They finish the regular season Wednesday at Staples Center against the Houston Rockets.

Unless the Utah Jazz (42-38) lose another game, the Lakers will need to win their final two to qualify for the postseason.

Without Bryant, getting Nash back is crucial, but D’Antoni didn’t seem especially optimistic for Sunday.

“Whenever he feels like he can do it, he will,” said D’Antoni.

Steve Blake has performed well in Nash’s absence. D’Antoni indicated Jodie Meeks would start in place of Bryant.

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Email Eric Pincus at eric.pincus@gmail.com and follow him on Twitter @EricPincus.

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