Steve Nash injury: Lakers point guard doubtful for Friday vs. Clippers

Los Angeles Lakers' point guard Steve Nash is listed as doubtful for Friday's game against the Los Angeles Clippers after suffering a leg contusion on Wednesday, according to Lakers reporter Mike Trudell.

Nash said on Wednesday that he was "hopeful" to play in the rivalry between the two occupants of Staples Center.

Nash collided with Portland Trail Blazers' guard Damian Lillard on Wednesday in what was diagnosed as a shin bruise. The two-time MVP played only 16 minutes in the Portland game, 15 of which were before the injury. He returned in the second half for only a minute before Steve Blake replaced him for the remainder of the Lakers'116-106 loss

In two games to start the 2012-13 season, Nash is averaging 4.5 points, four assists and three rebounds per game. He scored seven points and had four assists in the season-opener, playing 34 minutes in a 99-91 loss to the Dallas Mavericks.