Cameron Carr, the Lakers' 24th overall pick from a savvy trade with the Knicks, is absolutely tearing it up in Summer League, already showing off a full arsenal of NBA-ready skills and an athletic profile that's got Laker fans absolutely buzzing. This isn't just some late first-rounder. With the roster clearly needing wing talent, Carr projects as a two-way producer, and he's got a real, legitimate shot at earning a spot in head coach JJ Redick's rotation.
Carr's Shot-Making Is Straight Up Filthy
Dude can flat-out shoot, and it's from anywhere on the floor! His offensive game is built around this unique ability, combining textbook shot mechanics with detailed footwork to cleanly square up and unleash his versatile shot profile. What's even crazier is that the Summer League roster for LA has been bare bones when it comes to top-level ballhandlers, forcing Carr to create his own looks. Take that clip against the Thunder: Carr gets a step-up screen, the defender's in deep drop coverage, and Carr, operating as the ballhandler, just pulls up and punishes that space. He's got a nice handle, the skill to maneuver through ball screens, and the athleticism to rise up and hit his spot. Remember that pick and roll with teammate Adou Theiro? Those two have serious synergy. Carr gets to the free throw line extended, hits a veteran pump fake to freeze the defender, and then rises to hit his patented mid-range pull-up, showing off that untouchable 7-foot wingspan. It's unreal.Why His Off-Ball Talent Is A Game Changer
With Luka Dončić and Austin Reaves holding down the lead backcourt, and Collin Sexton as the backup, Carr isn't going to have a ton of on-ball responsibilities. But that's exactly why he's so compelling! His real case for minutes on this team lies in him being a potentially elite off-ball wing. He's a hand-in-glove fit for Redick, who has consistently stressed the value of having a movement shooter in the lineup. The Lakers ran him off countless actions throughout Summer League just to get him open. We saw that main screen, a pindown, allowing Carr to curl into position for the entry pass. With a defender in lock-and-trail, he curls tight, catches, and fires in one motion. Then there was that wide pin down: he uses his athletic profile and handle to exploit a defender who's out of position, hits a quick triple threat fake to gain a step, and finishes above the rim. What's next? If Carr keeps showcasing this kind of talent, a spot in JJ Redick's rotation isn't just a possibility, it's practically a lock. Get ready, Lakers fans, because Cameron Carr is coming for those minutes.This article was created with AI assistance and reviewed by Seattle On Tap editorial staff. Always verify information with official team sources.