Cameron Carr Welcomed by Lakers After Draft-Night Trade
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The Los Angeles Lakers formally introduced first-round pick Cameron Carr on Tuesday, four days after moving up one slot in a draft-night deal with the New York Knicks to secure the Baylor guard at No. 24 overall in the 2026 NBA Draft.
“It’s a blessing to be here,” Carr told reporters at the team’s practice facility. “Walking into the building, the first thing you notice is the rich tradition of the people that have been here before you.”
Surreal Moment on Draft Night
Carr said learning that the Lakers were selecting him felt “surreal.” “For the first couple of minutes it didn’t feel real,” he recalled. “I’m about to walk across the stage and be an NBA player—something I’ve dreamed of my whole life.”
The 6-foot-5 guard, who owns a 7-foot-1 wingspan, averaged 18.9 points, 5.8 rebounds, 2.6 assists and 1.3 blocks last season at Baylor. He shot 37.4 percent from three-point range on 6.1 attempts per game, production the Lakers expect will complement primary ball-handlers Luka Dončić and Austin Reaves.
Warm Reception From Teammates, Fans
Carr said he has already spoken with several Lakers players and has “gotten a lot of love on social media from L.A. and the people in this community.”
Basketball runs in the family: Carr’s father, Chris Carr, played six NBA seasons and finished second to Kobe Bryant in the 1997 Slam Dunk Contest.
First On-Court Action Set for Las Vegas
Los Angeles opens its Las Vegas Summer League schedule against the Oklahoma City Thunder, giving fans an initial look at Carr in a Lakers uniform.
With elite athleticism, perimeter defense potential and proven outside shooting, the 21-year-old rookie believes he can make an immediate impact. “I feel more motivation to work,” he said. “I’m excited to get started.”
Source: Lakers Nation
