Steve Nash is headed to the Los Angeles Lakers in a sign-and-trade deal that will see the Suns receive multiple draft picks, according to reports confirmed by both ESPN and CBS Sports. The deal consists of the Lakers' 2013 and 2015 first round picks and their 2013 and 2014 second round picks, according to Paul Coro of the Arizona Republic.
Given that Phoenix's alternative was to lose Nash in free agency for nothing in return, a deal with the Lakers is extremely beneficial for the team. The Toronto Raptors had been vocal about their interest in Nash, but it appears the Lakers made a better offer. The Lakers were constrained by the fact that they are well over the luxury tax, but with a sign-and-trade deal Los Angeles is able to use their $8.9 million trade exception in order to make Nash a competitive offer. The Suns are now clearly looking to the future, while the Lakers get the veteran point guard they sorely need.
Stick with SB Nation Arizona for more on the Steve Nash deal and the Phoenix Suns. For all things Suns, check out Bright Side of the Sun.