Steve Nash has confirmed that he is aiming to continue playing in the NBA next season.

The Los Angeles Lakers guard, who is the oldest active player in the league, struggled with a root nerve problem throughout the 2013-14 season, featuring in just 15 games.

The 40-year-old, who is under contract with the team for another year, told ESPN: "They can't rely on me, frankly. Hopefully I come back and play 82 games next year and the sky's the limit, but they can't rely on me. We don't know what I'm going to bring.

"Regardless, I want to contribute. Whether I play or don't play, I'd love to be here for the young guys, be a sounding board, even if it was out of design. Like, 'We really want you to help this rookie,' that would be an honor.

"It's been obviously a disaster individually and collectively, but not for lack of want and trying. Sometimes you got to take your shots and try to keep fighting. You can't always be on top and you can't quit when you're down."

The Lakers finished bottom in their division this season, missing out on a place in the playoffs for just the second time in 20 years.