A key driver of the team’s early success is first-round pick Cameron Carr. Known for his two-way versatility, Carr has quickly become one of the summer’s breakout performers and is drawing attention from around the league.
Former NBA All-Star Isaiah Thomas recently highlighted Carr as one of Summer League’s standout players. Speaking on NBA TV, Thomas praised Carr for his all-around game, noting his scoring ability, playmaking, and floor spacing. He emphasized Carr’s potential to make a real impact for the Lakers and pointed out how valuable his ability to catch and shoot, combined with the capacity to drive and create for others, can be for a young guard entering the NBA.
Carr has moved up expectations despite sliding in the draft, with his play reinforcing the Lakers’ hope that they may have found a long-term contributor with their late first-round selection. Across five Summer League appearances in the California Classic and Las Vegas, Carr has averaged 18.2 points, 2.8 rebounds, 1.2 assists, and 1.0 block in about 25 minutes per game. He’s shooting 44.9% from the field and 36.1% from three-point range, attempting roughly 7.4 triples per game.
Carr’s recent form followed a thumb injury that caused him to miss a previous game against the Dallas Mavericks. In his latest outing, he led all scorers with 23 points in 29 minutes, hitting three triples while contributing one rebound, two assists, and one block. Lakers head coach JJ Redick, who attended the game, has watched Carr’s progress as he continues to push for meaningful NBA minutes in his rookie season.
Postgame, Carr stressed a team-first approach, underscoring that the goal is to win and to contribute consistently on both ends of the floor. His message and performance reflect a growing confidence and a commitment to the Lakers’ blueprint for development and success.
Carr’s ride in Summer League so far has been defined by steady improvement, a collaborative mindset, and a clear winning mentality. These elements have given the Lakers multiple reasons to feel optimistic about Carr’s long-term development and his potential role within the organization moving forward.