Key Takeaways
- The Lakers moved up to the 24th overall pick in a trade with the Knicks and selected forward Cameron Carr from Baylor.
- Carr impressed in Summer League, averaging 17 points per game while shooting 37% from three‑point range.
- His offensive arsenal features a quick, textbook release, strong footwork, and the ability to create his own shot despite limited playmaking help.
- Defensively, his 7‑foot wingspan and athleticism translate into effective perimeter blocking, averaging about one block per game.
- Carr fits head coach JJ Redick’s emphasis on off‑ball movement shooting, thriving off pindowns and similar actions to get open looks.
- Areas for growth include tightening passing decisions, improving off‑ball defense, and adding strength through weight‑room work.
- Although Summer League performance is not a definitive predictor, early signs suggest the Lakers may have secured a steal who can contribute right away.
The Los Angeles Lakers used a trade with the New York Knicks to climb to the 24th slot in the draft and selected Cameron Carr, a forward out of Baylor. The move was part of a draft class widely regarded as one of the strongest in recent memory, and the Lakers hoped to add a versatile wing to a roster that lacked depth on the perimeter. Carr’s arrival generated excitement among fans, who quickly noticed his polished skill set and athletic frame.
During Summer League action, Carr demonstrated why the Lakers were eager to get him on the floor. In four games he posted an average of 17 points per contest while hitting 37% of his three‑point attempts. His shooting mechanics are textbook‑perfect: a smooth release, precise footwork that squares him up quickly, and the confidence to pull up from anywhere on the arc. Because the Lakers’ Summer League roster lacked elite ball‑handlers, Carr often had to create his own offense. A clip against the Oklahoma City Thunder illustrated this ability—he received a step‑up screen, operated as the primary ball‑handler, and punished the defense’s deep drop with a crisp pull‑up jumper.
Carr also showed promise as a playmaker in pick‑and‑roll situations. Teaming up with fellow rookie Adou Theiro, he used a pump fake to freeze defenders before elevating for a mid‑range shot, exploiting his impressive seven‑foot wingspan to get his shot off over closeouts. While the presence of established guards like Luka Dončić, Austin Reaves, and backup Collin Sexton limits his on‑ball responsibilities, Carr’s true value may lie off the ball. Head coach JJ Redick has repeatedly emphasized the importance of a movement shooter who can constantly relocate to find open looks, and Carr fits that mold perfectly.
The Lakers repeatedly ran actions designed to free Carr as a shooter. One of the most effective was a pin‑down screen that allowed him to curl into position, catch the entry pass, and fire in one motion. In another sequence, a wide pin‑down put his defender out of place; Carr used a quick triple‑threat fake to gain a step, then finished above the rim. These off‑ball movements highlight his readiness to thrive in Redick’s system, where spacing and constant motion are paramount.
On the defensive end, Carr’s physical tools translate into disruptive potential. His long wingspan and leaping ability enable him to contest and block shots from the perimeter—a rarity for a wing player. Over the four Summer League outings he averaged roughly one block per game. An illustrative out‑of‑bounds play showed him navigating two screens from a big man, recovering quickly, and swatting away a three‑point attempt. This blend of shooting prowess and shot‑blocking ability places him in an elite category; he was the only Division I player last season to record over 70 made three‑pointers and more than 40 blocks.
Despite the promising flashes, there are clear areas for improvement. Carr acknowledged that his decision‑making when passing needs refinement, particularly in recognizing when to kick the ball out versus attacking the rim. His off‑ball defense can benefit from greater focus and discipline, and he has expressed a desire to add muscle through strength training to better withstand the rigors of an NBA season.
While Summer League results should be interpreted cautiously—competition level, limited sample size, and varying roles all affect performance—the early returns paint an encouraging picture. Cameron Carr appears to possess a rare combination of shooting versatility, athletic defense, and a willingness to adapt to a role‑player mindset. If he continues to develop his passing, defensive consistency, and physical strength, he could earn a spot in JJ Redick’s rotation and provide the Lakers with an immediate, two‑way wing upgrade. In short, the Lakers may have secured a steal in the 24th pick, and Carr’s trajectory warrants close watching as the season approaches.