Lakers Move Up to No. 24, Draft Baylor Guard Cameron Carr in 2026 NBA Draft
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New York, June 24, 2026 — The Los Angeles Lakers traded up one spot in the first round of the 2026 NBA Draft on Tuesday, sending cash considerations to the New York Knicks to secure the No. 24 pick and select Baylor guard Cameron Carr.
The Lakers originally held the 25th selection before completing the deal with New York. ESPN’s Shams Charania first reported the trade shortly after the pick was made.
Profile of the New Laker
Carr, a 6-foot-5 wing, averaged 18.9 points, 5.8 rebounds, 2.6 assists, 0.9 steals and 1.3 blocks across 34 games in his junior season at Baylor. He shot 49.4 percent from the field and 37.4 percent from beyond the arc on 6.1 three-point attempts per game.
Before transferring to Baylor, Carr spent two seasons at Tennessee in a limited role. His breakout year with the Bears elevated him into the first-round conversation, valued for his athleticism and perimeter shooting.
Draft Strategy
Los Angeles entered the offseason with a need at center but chose to add depth on the perimeter with Carr’s versatility. Barring additional moves, the Lakers have no second-round picks and Carr stands as their lone selection in this year’s draft.
Family and Representation
Carr’s father, Chris Carr, placed second to Kobe Bryant in the 1997 NBA Slam Dunk Contest. The rookie is represented by Bill Duffy of BDA Sports, whose client list includes Luka Dončić.
Pelinka Emphasizes Development
General manager Rob Pelinka recently underscored the organization’s reliance on developing young talent within the constraints of the current collective bargaining agreement, citing past improvements from players such as Rui Hachimura and Adou Thiero.
Source: LakersNation.com
