Cameron Carr Reports Positive First Meeting With Lakers Coach JJ Redick
cameron-carr-reports-positive-first-meeting-with-lakers-coach-jj-redick
EL SEGUNDO, Calif. — Rookie guard Cameron Carr said he and Los Angeles Lakers head coach JJ Redick have already connected, describing their initial discussion as “great” during his introductory press conference on June 26 at the UCLA Health Training Center.
The Lakers acquired Carr, 20, in a draft-night trade with the New York Knicks after he was selected 24th overall in the 2026 NBA Draft. Speaking to reporters, the former Baylor standout noted that Redick was “the first conversation I had that day,” adding that both are eager to begin working together.
Redick, who has guided Los Angeles to back-to-back 50-win seasons, has emphasized youth since taking over the bench. Carr and fellow young wing Adou Thiero are the latest pieces in that strategy, although the coach has historically limited minutes for first-year players.
General manager Rob Pelinka faces pressure this offseason to assemble a championship roster around Luka Dončić. While Carr’s place in the regular-season rotation is uncertain, the 6-foot-6 guard is expected to make his first impression during Summer League. He said he is prepared to focus on defense and “do whatever it takes” to earn playing time, even though his slender build could present challenges in the physical style Redick demands.
The Lakers have missed on their last two first-round picks, increasing the importance of Carr’s development under the current collective bargaining agreement, which values low-cost rookie contracts. Carr slipped to No. 24 similarly to last year’s selection Dalton Knecht, and the team is counting on productive minutes during his four-year deal.
Off the court, Carr recently drew attention by critiquing Oklahoma City Thunder star Shai Gilgeous-Alexander for what he called excessive flopping — a recurring topic after Los Angeles’ second-round playoff exit. Carr is expected to defend the two-time MVP at some point during the regular season.
Source: LakersNation.com
