Steve Nash to play vs. Rockets, could pass Mark Jackson for third all-time in assists

Two-time MVP Steve Nash has averaged 14.3 points and 8.5 assists in his 18-year career. (Lisa Blumenfeld/Getty Images)

In what may be the last game of his season -- and possibly the last of his career -- 40-year-old point guard Steve Nash will suit up for the Lakers' game against the Houston Rockets on Tuesday. He will need just five assists to pass Mark Jackson for third all-time in NBA history.

According to the Lakers' Twitter feed, the two-time MVP will be featured in a backcourt with injury-riddled Jordan Farmar, who has played just 36 games this year.

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Nash, who has also been limited this year with back and nerve issues, has 10,330 assists since making his NBA debut in 1996. Though he may surpass Jackson, the No. 2 spot owned by Jason Kidd (12,091) and the top spot held by John Stockton (15,806) are out of reach for a player who was reportedly considering mid-season retirement and likely has, at best, one more season left in the tank. At the end of March, it was reported that the Lakers intend to keep Nash on the roster next season. 

In what could be a twist of fate, if Nash doesn't pass Jackson on Tuesday, he will have a chance to make history on Friday against the Warriors, who are coached by ... Jackson.

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