OAKLAND, Calif. - It's no secret former two-time NBA MVP Steve Nash and the Phoenix Suns have struggled this season, undergoing two coaching changes in less than a year and making some major personnel moves.

Nash spoke to Pro Basketball News about the trying year prior to the Suns' 154-120 win at Golden State on March 15. Here is what he had to say:

PBN: What are your overall impressions of the season?

Nash: It's been a hard year for us, very disappointing. There have been a lot of changes and we've underachieved in a lot of areas. But I just want to try to stay positive and finish out the season as well as we can.

PBN: Do you think the team still has a chance to make the playoffs?

Nash: Yeah. Anything is possible. We just have to play as hard as we can and approach it like every game is a must. If we do that, maybe someone else will slide out of the race and we'll get in.

PBN: In what area do you think the team needs to improve the most?

Nash: There is a lot of room for improvement. Obviously, we can still become more cohesive on offense, and we can improve our defense a lot. In some ways, this is like our third season, when you consider all the changes. It's almost like our season just got underway. Hopefully, we can get in a groove here and make something happen.

PBN: What's the biggest challenge when a team undergoes a coaching change?

Nash: The first coach we had this season (Terry Porter) was a big change from what we were last year (under Mike D'Antoni). Then, we changed back to our old style halfway through this year (under Alvin Gentry). There were a lot of changes and a lot of trades, and it's been difficult for us to really get some momentum and figure out what is the best style for us to play.

PBN: How did you feel about the trade of Raja Bell and Boris Diaw to Charlotte for Jason Richardson?

Nash: I was sad. I miss them. You know, they are two of my closest friends. But that's part of our business. I've just gotta move on and try to make the best of it. We got two good players back (Richardson and Jared Dudley), so we can still improve.

PBN: What are the expectations for next season?

Nash: Just get better. We're not used to not being in the playoffs. We still have an opportunity to make it, but to be honest, with the spot we're in now it will be difficult. There have been changes that have been positive, but the changes of philosophy and style have taken some getting used to. We need to stick to a plan to create some momentum and cohesion.

PBN: Who is the best point guard in the league today?

Nash: I think Chris Paul is the best right now. And Deron Williams. Both of those guys are leading the way.

PBN: A lot of fans are hoping you can play after the age of 40. Is that something you might try to do?

Nash: I think it's possible. If I feel my body can keep going until then, then yeah I would want to play that long.

Helen He is a senior reporter for Pro Basketball News. She can be reached at he@probasketballnews.com.