The Los Angeles Lakers asked Steve Nash not to announce his retirement in hope of trading away his expiring contract.

Nash's $9.7 million deal could have potentially been used as a trade chip to help a team save money via insurance.

Nash would have received additional money if he were traded due to his 15 percent trade kicker.

Nash has helped tutor Jordan Clarkson and intends to remain part of the Lakers' organization as he will continue living in the area.