Steve Nash had two epidural injections in his lower back this week and believes there is a good chance he will play in Game 1 of the Los Angeles Lakers' first-round series against the San Antonio Spurs if the treatment works.

"It really depends on whether the two epidurals work," Nash said. "If they kick in, I have a good chance to play."

Mitch Kupchak also expressed optimism that Nash could return for Game 1 on Sunday.

The Lakers will have three days off before the playoff opener in San Antonio.

"He felt a lot better [Wednesday]," Kupchak said of Nash. "He had a limited workout, which he really hasn't been able to do. We're hoping that [Thursday] morning he feels better and can increase the workout a little bit."