NBA Rumors: Phoenix Suns Must Trade Steve Nash Before He Tests the Market

The Steve Nash saga with the Phoenix Suns is always on and off in terms of the trade market, but if Nash is serious about testing his value on the open market after this season, the team would be foolish to continue to sit back and wait for his approval.

According to Kurt Hellin of NBC Sports, Nash said while the team hasn't discussed potential moves, he would be fine with the team moving him if they wanted to. He went on to discuss how he is intrigued by the thought of testing his value on the open market, which would mean he is open to leaving the Suns at season's end.

"

“It’ll be an interesting period for me if only because I never really been through it,” Nash said. “I want to be a champion and play on the best possible team but there’s also other factors. What’s the best fit for me, environment and financial considerations.”

"

Nash, who was drafted by the team in 1996, has been a staple since his return before the 2004 season. The team came close many times during his tenure with the team, but as of late they have been going through more of a rebuilding process. While the team has been struggling, Nash has continued to be a fan favorite, making it very difficult for the front office to even imagine trading their two-time MVP point guard.

If he is open to leave, wouldn't one consider them foolish to not go ahead and move him while they can get something in return?

I would say so.

The Suns fan base will likely be livid with a trade involving Nash, but they would likely be much happier in the end knowing they got something in return versus nothing as he walks away to another team.

Sure, there is the chance that he could re-sign with the team, but he could still come back if he were moved by the trade deadline.

Nash isn't young—and he isn't going to get any younger as he approaches 39 years of age next season. The value for Nash is at the highest it is going to get right now, and with teams like the Los Angeles Lakers and Miami Heat desperate for a point guard, the team can make some serious moves right now if they really want to take this rebuild seriously.

Nash has never won that championship, and he likely would want to take one last run at it. Other players have done that in the past, such as Karl Malone and Gary Payton who left their respective franchises to chase a last shot at a ring with the Lakers.

While it is hard to believe now, Nash could very much do the same. He isn't a selfish guy, and that is why he isn't demanding a trade, but the Suns need to be smart and do what is best for them in the long run.

At this point in time, that move appears to be trading Nash and getting something before they are left with nothing.

Jeff Chase is a Featured Columnist for the Chicago Cubs and Arizona State football.
Follow @Real_Jeff_Chase.