Cameron Carr made a strong impression in his summer league debut for the Los Angeles Lakers, scoring 19 points and sinking five three-pointers during a 104-72 loss to the Golden State Warriors at the Chase Center on Friday. The 21-year-old guard, selected 24th overall in the recent NBA draft, showcased the shooting ability that the Lakers hope will complement their revamped roster.
Carr, who played college basketball at Baylor, displayed confidence early in the game, hitting a three-pointer on the Lakers’ first summer league possession. He followed that with an assist and another successful three-point shot, prompting a celebratory gesture to the crowd. Carr described the experience as a “great moment” and emphasized his eagerness to learn from his new teammates and the pace of the professional game.
The Lakers have been active this offseason in bolstering their backcourt and perimeter shooting. Following the signing of guards Quentin Grimes and Collin Sexton, as well as forward Sandro Mamukelashvili, the team also acquired center Walker Kessler in a trade. These additions aim to support star Luka Dončić, who is expected to lead the team after LeBron James’s departure.
Standing 6-foot-5 with a notable 7-foot wingspan, Carr was praised by Lakers summer league coach Ty Abbott for his defensive instincts and athleticism. At the NBA combine, Carr recorded top marks among guards in vertical leap and agility tests, highlighting his potential to contribute on both ends of the floor. Abbott noted that Carr’s immediate focus would be on gaining strength and adapting to the physical demands of the NBA.
Carr acknowledged that adding muscle will be crucial as he transitions to the professional level, noting that at 184 pounds, he would be among the lighter players at his height. The Lakers’ expanding training and sports science resources, supported in part by their affiliation with the Los Angeles Dodgers, are expected to aid Carr’s physical development.
In roster moves concurrent with Carr’s debut, the Lakers signed two players to two-way contracts. Veteran guard Chris Mañon was retained after appearing in nine NBA games last season and earning G League all-defensive team honors. Rookie guard Peter Suder, the 2023 Mid-American Conference player of the year from Miami (Ohio), was also added. Suder contributed modestly in the summer league opener, playing over 24 minutes and recording two points, three rebounds, and four turnovers.
With the current roster at 13 players, the Lakers continue to evaluate options to strengthen their wing defense and add depth at the center position, particularly in the wake of Marcus Smart’s departure to Houston and the trade of Deandre Ayton to Washington. Carr’s arrival marks a key step in the Lakers’ effort to retool around Dončić and develop a more balanced and versatile team.