The Los Angeles Lakers have reportedly entered the bidding for Phoenix Suns point guard Steve Nash. David Aldridge of NBA.com reports that, similar to the New York Knicks, the Lakers might be willing to offer the veteran an exception beginning at $3.09 million per season.

With $83 million in payroll next season, the Lakers aren't as flexible as the Knicks or the Toronto Raptors.

The Knicks chance to sign Nash was made for difficult Wednesday when Landry Fields signed an offer sheet with Toronto. The Knicks were rumored to be pursuing a sign-and-trade with Phoenix in order to pay Nash more than the $3.09 million exception. Fields was to be the centerpiece of that proposed deal.The Raptors can offer more money, but if Nash wants to play for a contender the Lakers are a much more palatable option.

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