The Los Angeles Lakers selected Baylor guard Cameron Carr with the No. 24 overall pick [1] in the 2026 NBA Draft on Tuesday night [2].
The move signals a strategic effort by the Lakers to inject high-upside scoring into their backcourt. By targeting a specific player through a trade, the team demonstrated a clear preference for Carr's skill set over other available prospects.
To secure the selection, the Lakers traded up one spot from their original position at No. 25 [3]. The team sent cash considerations to the New York Knicks to finalize the deal [3].
Carr enters the professional league after a productive collegiate career at Baylor. During his final season, he averaged 18.9 points per game [4]. He demonstrated efficiency from the floor with an overall shooting percentage of 49.4% [4]. His ability to stretch the floor was further evidenced by a 37.4% three-point shooting percentage [4].
Team officials said Carr was a high-upside guard who fit their specific roster needs [5]. Beyond the statistics, the organization said there was a personal connection to the player through a relationship between Carr's father and the late Kobe Bryant [5].
The selection comes as the Lakers continue to refine their depth. By moving up in the draft, the team ensured they would not lose Carr to another franchise in the final stages of the first round.
“The Los Angeles Lakers selected Baylor guard Cameron Carr with the No. 24 overall pick”
The acquisition of Cameron Carr suggests the Lakers are prioritizing versatile, efficient scoring and a level of familiarity with the player's background. Trading for a single spot in the draft indicates a high level of confidence in Carr's immediate fit and potential growth within the organization's system.
