LAS VEGAS — Former NBA All-Star guard Isaiah Thomas believes first-year guard Cameron Carr is poised to contribute to the Los Angeles Lakers sooner rather than later.
Speaking on NBA TV during Summer League coverage this week, Thomas singled out Carr as the most impressive player he has watched outside the draft’s top selections. “He’s a hooper’s hooper,” Thomas said, noting Carr’s shooting range, ability to create off the dribble and willingness to set up teammates. Thomas added that Carr’s floor spacing and playmaking should “have a real big impact” on the Lakers’ regular-season roster.
Carr, the No. 43 pick in this year’s draft, is averaging 18.3 points while shooting 46.5 percent through three Las Vegas Summer League games. Los Angeles is the event’s only undefeated team and holds the No. 1 seed in the tournament bracket.
The 6-foot-5 guard first turned heads at the NBA Draft Combine, where Thomas said the rookie “probably had the best showing.” Carr has continued that form in Las Vegas, mixing catch-and-shoot accuracy with drives to the rim and flashes of playmaking on the perimeter. Coaches have also praised his length and athleticism on defense.
Asked about his priorities in Las Vegas, Carr said the main objective is to capture the Summer League title with his teammates, placing team success above individual statistics.
The Lakers resume Summer League play later this week as they pursue the championship, while team officials evaluate whether Carr’s early production can translate to minutes when training camp opens in the fall.
Source: LakersNation.com
