Lakers trying to cope without Steve Nash

The Lakers will try to win without Steve Nash, however long it takes.

The team said Nash would be out at least one week because of a small fracture in the head of the fibula of his left leg, though that type of injury could take three or four weeks to heal. He won’t play tonight against Detroit, Wednesday against Utah or Friday against Golden State.

Nash was injured last Wednesday when he was kneed by a Portland player while turning to run down court. The Lakers initially thought it was a bruised shin but an MRI exam a few days later revealed the fracture.

“Based on the injury report, the fracture was apparent only on MRI,� said Manhattan Beach sports-medicine specialist Keith Feder. “That more than likely means the fracture was minor and the return to play will be based on level of pain and performance with pain.�

The Lakers are 0-3 for the first time since 1978. Nash had seven points and four assists in the season opener and two points and four assists when he left Wednesday’s game early in the third quarter.

“You obviously hope he’s back as soon as possible but the one thing you don’t want to do, you don’t want to compromise his long-term health for him coming back quicker than he should,� Lakers Coach Mike Brown said.

Steve Blake had eight points and two assists in Nash’s starting spot Friday against the Clippers.

Second-year guard Darius Morris will also get playing time Sunday against Detroit.

“It’s going to help his growth,� Brown said.

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