Cameron Carr is a 6-foot-5 guard selected No. 24 overall in the 2026 NBA Draft by the New York Knicks and acquired by the Los Angeles Lakers in a draft-night trade. At Baylor in 2025-26, Carr averaged 18.9 points, 5.8 rebounds, 2.6 assists and 1.3 blocks, while shooting 49.4% from the field and 37.4% from three-point range. His athleticism, length, scoring ability and defensive activity give him intriguing NBA potential, and his 19-point preseason debut has strengthened the case for him to receive opportunities as a rookie.
Introduction
Cameron Carr is quickly becoming one of the most interesting young players to watch on the Los Angeles Lakers’ 2026-27 roster.
The Lakers acquired Carr after he was selected No. 24 overall by the New York Knicks in the first round of the 2026 NBA Draft. The draft-night transaction was part of a larger exchange in which New York sent Carr’s draft rights to Los Angeles, while the Lakers’ No. 25 selection, Sergio De Larrea, was eventually moved to Dallas through New York.
Carr arrives in Los Angeles after an impressive one-season run at Baylor.
During the 2025-26 season, he led the Bears with 18.9 points per game, while also averaging 5.8 rebounds, 2.6 assists and 1.3 blocks. He started all 34 games and earned All-Big 12 recognition.
His combination of scoring, athleticism and defensive activity made him a first-round prospect.
Now, the question is how quickly those qualities can translate to the NBA.
Carr has already provided an encouraging early answer.
In his Lakers preseason debut against the Sacramento Kings on October 5, he scored 19 points on 7-of-13 shooting, including 3-of-7 from three-point range. He also had three rebounds, two assists and two steals in 23 minutes.
That was only one preseason game, so it should not be treated as proof that Carr is ready for a major NBA role.
But it was an important first step.
What Happened?
The New York Knicks selected Cameron Carr with the 24th overall pick in the 2026 NBA Draft.
The Lakers then acquired his draft rights as part of a planned trade.
NBA.com’s official draft board lists Carr as the 24th pick, selected by New York and traded to Los Angeles. The same draft information identifies him as a Baylor guard standing 6-foot-5.
The Lakers had their own first-round pick at No. 25 but ultimately traded that selection, which was used on Spanish guard Sergio De Larrea, to Dallas through New York. As a result, Carr became the primary first-round rookie acquired by Los Angeles in the 2026 draft.
For Baylor, Carr’s selection continued a remarkable draft streak.
Baylor’s official athletic department noted that Carr became the school’s sixth consecutive first-round NBA Draft selection from 2021 through 2026, joining an elite group of college programs to accomplish that feat.
Key Details
- Player: Cameron Carr
- Team: Los Angeles Lakers
- Position: Guard / shooting guard
- Jersey: No. 43
- Height: 6-foot-5
- Draft: 2026 NBA Draft
- Draft position: No. 24 overall
- Original drafting team: New York Knicks
- Acquired by: Los Angeles Lakers
- College: Baylor
- Age: 21
- Birthday: November 21, 2004
- 2025-26 Baylor stats: 18.9 PPG, 5.8 RPG, 2.6 APG, 1.3 BPG
- 2025-26 shooting: 49.4% FG, 37.4% 3PT, 80.1% FT
- NBA experience: Rookie
- 2026 Summer League: Strong scoring performances
- Preseason debut: 19 points against Sacramento
Cameron Carr’s Baylor Stats
Carr’s one season at Baylor was the defining chapter of his pre-NBA career.
He played 34 games and started all 34 during the 2025-26 season.
His averages were:
| Statistic | 2025-26 Baylor |
|---|---|
| Games | 34 |
| Points | 18.9 |
| Rebounds | 5.8 |
| Assists | 2.6 |
| Blocks | 1.3 |
| Field Goal % | 49.4% |
| Three-Point % | 37.4% |
| Free Throw % | 80.1% |
Carr also scored 642 total points, which Baylor identifies as a school single-season record for a sophomore. His 642 points ranked fifth in Baylor history for a single season regardless of class.
He led Baylor in scoring and blocks.
He also made 77 three-pointers during the season and blocked 45 shots, demonstrating the unusual combination of perimeter scoring and defensive activity that attracted NBA scouts.
Cameron Carr’s Scoring Ability
Scoring is arguably Carr’s most obvious strength.
At Baylor, he showed that he could score in several ways.
He was productive from three-point range, capable of attacking the basket and athletic enough to finish above the rim.
NBA.com’s draft profile describes him as an explosive wing scorer with strong athleticism and length. It also highlights his ability to score off the catch and attack in straight lines.
That combination is useful in the modern NBA.
A player does not necessarily need to be a primary ball-handler to become an effective scorer.
Carr can potentially operate as a secondary offensive option, particularly alongside high-level creators.
Three-Point Shooting
Carr shot 37.4% from three-point range at Baylor during the 2025-26 season.
That is an encouraging number for a young perimeter player.
However, his NBA three-point shooting should be evaluated over a much larger sample.
NBA defenses close out faster, defensive schemes are more complex and NBA players have less time to make decisions.
Carr’s ability to maintain shooting efficiency while adjusting to the NBA’s pace will be one of the biggest factors in determining his offensive role.
His preseason debut offered an early positive signal.
Against Sacramento, Carr made 3 of 7 three-point attempts while finishing with 19 points.
Again, one preseason game does not establish a long-term shooting percentage.
But it demonstrated that he was comfortable taking open opportunities.
Athleticism and Length
Carr’s physical profile is another reason the Lakers were interested.
NBA.com lists him at 6-foot-5, while his draft profile emphasizes his length and athleticism.
His athleticism shows up in transition and around the basket.
He can cover ground quickly and finish above the rim.
That gives him potential value in a Lakers offense that can create transition opportunities through defense and rebounding.
Carr’s athleticism also gives him defensive potential.
A 6-foot-5 guard with length can potentially defend multiple perimeter positions, although doing that consistently at the NBA level requires more than physical tools.
Defensive Potential
Defense could eventually become one of Carr’s most valuable NBA traits.
At Baylor, he averaged 1.3 blocks per game, led the team with 45 blocks and showed enough length and activity to affect shots.
For a perimeter player, that is notable.
His defensive profile is not based purely on steals.
His size, length, athleticism and activity allow him to contest shots and disrupt offensive possessions.
NBA.com’s draft profile specifically identifies his ability to use his size and activity to impact games defensively.
The challenge now is translating that activity into consistent NBA defense.
He will face stronger ball-handlers, more sophisticated screening actions and significantly more spacing.
The Lakers will need to determine where he can defend most effectively.
Cameron Carr’s Summer League Performance
Before making his preseason debut, Carr gained valuable experience during the Las Vegas Summer League.
He produced several strong scoring performances.
Against Oklahoma City on July 10, he recorded 18 points, two rebounds, one assist, one steal and two blocks.
Against the Clippers on July 14, he scored 23 points, shooting 8-of-18 from the field and 3-of-10 from three-point range.
He then scored 14 points against Chicago and 17 points against Golden State in the Summer League semifinal.
The shooting was inconsistent at times, particularly from three, but Carr repeatedly demonstrated that he could create offense.
That was important for a first-round rookie.
Preseason Debut Gives Lakers Another Look
Carr’s first preseason game generated even more attention.
The Lakers defeated the Sacramento Kings 127-103 on October 5, and Carr finished with 19 points in 23 minutes.
His shooting line was:
- 7-of-13 from the field
- 3-of-7 from three
- 2-of-2 from the free-throw line
- 3 rebounds
- 2 assists
- 2 steals
He also displayed his athleticism in transition and showed confidence shooting from outside.
Most importantly, the performance came against NBA-level competition rather than a Summer League environment.
It was still preseason, but it gave the Lakers coaching staff another positive data point.
What Did JJ Redick Say About Cameron Carr?
Lakers head coach JJ Redick has indicated that Carr can earn opportunities during his rookie season.
NBA player news reported in September said Carr could be part of the Lakers’ rotation, based on Redick’s comments during training camp.
That does not mean Carr has been guaranteed a regular rotation position.
The Lakers have a crowded group of guards and wings, including established players and other young prospects.
But Redick’s willingness to discuss Carr as a potential rotation player is significant.
It suggests the coaching staff is evaluating him as someone who could contribute sooner rather than simply developing in the G League.
Cameron Carr’s NBA Outlook
Carr’s immediate NBA outlook should be viewed realistically.
He is a 21-year-old rookie joining a Lakers team with established players and postseason expectations.
There is no guarantee that he will receive consistent regular-season minutes immediately.
However, he has several traits that can help him earn playing time.
1. Shooting
His 37.4% three-point shooting at Baylor gives him a foundation as a perimeter threat.
2. Athleticism
His ability to run, attack the basket and finish above the rim gives the Lakers another transition option.
3. Defensive activity
His 45 blocks at Baylor show that he can use his physical tools defensively.
4. Scoring versatility
He does not rely exclusively on one type of shot.
5. Size for a guard
At 6-foot-5, Carr has useful positional size.
These traits give him a pathway to an NBA rotation.
What Carr Needs to Improve
The biggest challenge for Carr is consistency.
He is entering the NBA after only one season at Baylor.
That means he has limited experience compared with older draft prospects.
He also needs to become more efficient with his decision-making.
NBA defenses will force him to make quicker reads.
A successful rookie season may depend less on how many points Carr can score and more on whether he can:
- Make quick decisions.
- Defend without fouling.
- Maintain his shooting efficiency.
- Limit turnovers.
- Understand NBA defensive rotations.
- Play within the Lakers’ offensive system.
- Contribute without needing high usage.
Those are typical adjustments for a young NBA perimeter player.
Where Cameron Carr Fits on the Lakers
The Lakers’ wing rotation is competitive.
Players such as Quentin Grimes, Matisse Thybulle, Ziaire Williams and Jake LaRavia have roles to establish, while established stars and rotation players occupy much of the roster.
That means Carr is unlikely to walk directly into a major offensive role.
Instead, his first opportunity could come in smaller stretches.
If he performs well, those minutes can grow.
The Lakers can also use the South Bay Lakers as a development option if they decide Carr needs more consistent game experience.
That possibility is not a negative.
For a 21-year-old rookie, regular developmental minutes can be extremely valuable.
Why Carr Could Be Valuable Next to Luka Dončić
One interesting part of Carr’s fit is his potential to play alongside Luka Dončić.
Dončić is one of the NBA’s primary offensive creators.
That means complementary players around him need to understand how to play without the ball.
Carr’s ability to catch and shoot, cut, run in transition and attack closeouts could make him a useful complementary piece.
The Lakers do not need Carr to become a primary creator immediately.
They can allow him to develop while benefiting from the opportunities created by their established offensive stars.
That could make his development easier than asking him to create an entire offense for himself.
What Officials and Organizations Said
The Lakers’ official draft information confirms that the organization acquired Carr from the Knicks after he was selected 24th overall. NBA.com’s Lakers draft profile specifically lists Carr as the No. 24 selection acquired from New York.
Baylor’s official athletic department described Carr’s 2025-26 campaign as a standout season, noting his team-leading 18.9 points per game, 5.8 rebounds, 2.6 assists and 1.3 blocks.
NBA.com’s draft scouting profile identified his explosive scoring ability, athleticism, length and defensive activity as key strengths. Baylor coach Scott Drew also praised Carr’s skill and athleticism in the NBA draft profile.
During Lakers training camp, Redick indicated that Carr could earn opportunities as a rookie. His strong preseason debut against Sacramento then provided an early demonstration of his scoring ability.
Why This Matters
Carr’s development matters because the Lakers need young players who can eventually become reliable rotation pieces.
The organization cannot build entirely around veteran players.
A first-round pick provides the team with an opportunity to develop a player who could contribute at a relatively manageable cost during the early years of his career.
Carr is particularly interesting because his skill set does not depend on one single offensive ability.
He can shoot.
He can drive.
He can run in transition.
He can defend.
He has enough size to compete physically with NBA wings.
That versatility creates multiple possible paths to an NBA role.
What Happens Next?
The next stage is the remainder of the 2026 preseason and then the regular season.
Carr’s preseason debut has increased attention around his potential rotation role, but the Lakers still have several established wings and guards competing for minutes.
The most important things to watch are:
- Whether his three-point shooting remains consistent.
- How he performs defensively against NBA wings.
- Whether he earns regular-season rotation minutes.
- How quickly he adapts to NBA defensive schemes.
- Whether the Lakers use him primarily as a wing scorer or secondary ball-handler.
- Whether he spends significant time with the Lakers or South Bay.
The preseason should therefore be treated as an evaluation period rather than a final verdict on his rookie role.
Cameron Carr’s Long-Term NBA Outlook
The long-term outlook is promising but still uncertain.
Carr has the physical tools and college production of a legitimate NBA prospect.
His Baylor season demonstrated that he could handle a large offensive role.
His draft position confirms that NBA teams viewed him as a first-round talent.
His early Lakers performances provide additional evidence that he can compete at the next level.
But development is rarely linear.
The transition from college basketball to the NBA can expose weaknesses that were less obvious at the college level.
Carr will need to improve his defensive consistency, decision-making and shooting reliability.
If he does, his combination of size and athleticism could eventually allow him to become a versatile two-way wing.
Final Assessment
Cameron Carr is one of the Lakers’ most intriguing young prospects entering the 2026-27 season.
The Lakers acquired him after he was selected No. 24 overall in the 2026 NBA Draft, and his Baylor résumé provides a strong foundation for his professional career.
He averaged 18.9 points, 5.8 rebounds, 2.6 assists and 1.3 blocks during his lone Baylor season while shooting 49.4% from the field and 37.4% from three.
His early professional performances have also been encouraging.
After several productive Summer League games, Carr scored 19 points in his Lakers preseason debut, shooting 7-of-13 overall and 3-of-7 from three while adding two steals.
That does not guarantee a major rookie role.
But it does show why the Lakers are interested in his development.
Carr has the athleticism to make an impact, the shooting ability to provide spacing and the defensive tools to potentially become a two-way player.
The biggest question is how quickly he can turn those tools into consistent NBA production.
For now, the most accurate expectation is that Carr is a promising first-round rookie who could earn rotation opportunities if he continues to defend, shoot efficiently and make smart decisions.
His first preseason performance suggests the Lakers may have found a young player worth watching closely.
FAQs
Who is Cameron Carr?
Cameron Carr is a 21-year-old guard selected No. 24 overall in the 2026 NBA Draft by the New York Knicks and acquired by the Los Angeles Lakers. He played college basketball at Baylor.
What pick did the Lakers use to get Cameron Carr?
Carr was selected with the 24th overall pick by the Knicks, and his draft rights were then traded to the Lakers. Los Angeles originally held the No. 25 pick, which was used on Sergio De Larrea before that selection was moved to Dallas.
What were Cameron Carr’s Baylor stats?
In 34 games during the 2025-26 season, Carr averaged 18.9 points, 5.8 rebounds, 2.6 assists and 1.3 blocks. He shot 49.4% from the field, 37.4% from three and 80.1% from the free-throw line.
How did Cameron Carr perform in his Lakers preseason debut?
Carr scored 19 points, grabbed three rebounds, recorded two assists and made two steals against Sacramento on October 5, 2026. He shot 7-of-13 from the field and 3-of-7 from three in the Lakers’ 127-103 win.
What are Cameron Carr’s biggest strengths?
Carr’s main strengths include athleticism, length, scoring versatility, three-point shooting and defensive activity. NBA.com’s draft profile specifically highlights his ability to score off the catch, attack in straight lines and use his physical tools defensively.
Can Cameron Carr play in the Lakers’ rotation as a rookie?
Yes, that is possible. Lakers coach JJ Redick has indicated that Carr could earn opportunities during his rookie season. However, the Lakers have a crowded wing rotation, so regular minutes are not guaranteed.
What makes Cameron Carr an interesting NBA prospect?
Carr combines a 6-foot-5 frame with athleticism, shooting and defensive potential. His 18.9-point Baylor season showed that he can carry a significant scoring load, while his 1.3 blocks per game demonstrated unusual defensive activity for a perimeter player.
Will Cameron Carr start for the Lakers?
There is currently no indication that Carr is guaranteed a starting role. The more realistic short-term question is whether he can earn regular rotation minutes. His preseason performance could strengthen his case, but the Lakers have several established perimeter players competing for playing time.
Does Cameron Carr have NBA family connections?
Yes. His father, Chris Carr, played six NBA seasons and was the runner-up in the 1997 NBA Slam Dunk Contest. NBA.com’s draft profile also notes that Carr’s mother, Tanya, was a member of the Minnesota Timberwolves’ dance team.