The Los Angeles Lakers may be in win-now mode, but that doesn’t mean they have no room for a developing young rookie. In the case of former Baylor star Cameron Carr, for example, the opportunity is there to earn his spot in a flexible rotation.
So, in a chat with the media during his introductory press conference on Friday, Carr was optimistic as he looked ahead to the upcoming season. Opening night is still months away, and it gives the young guard plenty of time to hone his craft and bulk up before being thrust into action.
“First things first, got to put on some weight. That’s going to be an emphasis, be in the weight room as much as possible. It’s going to be my second home,” said Carr on his offseason plans. “Overall, it’s going to be exciting. I know I keep saying it, and it’s repetitive, but man, y’all don’t understand how much of a joy and a blessing it is to be here in this situation. So just learn and follow in their footsteps.”
While the Lakers are feeling good about this year’s draft, some critics believe the Lakers should have picked a defensive center over an off-ball, score-first guard. Nevertheless, Carr says that he can be the team’s best defender and envisions taking on the Lakers’ toughest assignments.
“First things first, play defense. I feel like I’ve got to show that I’m the best defender here. That’s what I’m here to do,” Carr said. “First things first is establishing a defensive consistency and showing I can be dominant or a plus on the defensive end as someone they would like to guard the best player.”
A big factor in Carr’s initial success will be how he works with head coach JJ Redick. While some youngsters have struggled under Redick (like Dalton Knecht), Carr is confident he can thrive. In fact, he and Redick have already had some early conversations.
“I did talk to him, great guy, we had a great conversation,” added Carr. “He’s excited to get to work, just as I am, and I’m excited to play for him. Have I had conversations with him? Yes, he’s the first conversation I had that day.”
With averages of 18.9 points, 5.8 rebounds, 2.6 assists, 0.9 steals, and 1.3 blocks per game this past season, Carr showed flashes of what he could be: an elite, high-flying wing who can do it all on the court. How his game will translate to the NBA remains to be seen, but his approach is a good sign of things to come.
Even before he’s played a single game as a pro, Carr has committed himself to a summer of hard work, proving that he’s willing to do whatever it takes to succeed. Between now and opening night in October, he will be working to be exactly who the Lakers need him to be, setting an example for everyone in the locker room. In the process, he wants to earn their trust and become a player who is considered part of their long-term plans.
