DENVER — The stretching and treatment has become so routine for Nash that he doesn’t put much thought that he’s played most of his 17-year career with back issues.

Nash noticed his muscles tighten in the Lakers’ win Friday over Portland and conceded that it hasn’t improved much, an injury he said is different than his usual back issues. Nash said following the Lakers’ win over Dallas he believes the back will heal soon because the schedule only entails two home games Thursday (Minnesota) and Sunday (Atlanta).

“It actually felt a little better tonight,” said Nash, who posted 15 points on 6 of 8 shooting and five assists in the Lakers’ 119-108 loss Tuesday to the Denver Nuggets at Pepsi Center. “It’s on its way out.”

That’s because Nash received increased treatment from Lakers physical therapist Judy Seto.

“He plays through everything,” said Lakers coach Mike D’Antoni, who coached Nash through four seasons in Phoenix (2004-2007). “Even if he’s struggling, he’ll find a way to be positive and that’s kind of what we need.”

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