SACRAMENTO — Cameron Carr displayed his scoring ability throughout July with the Lakers’ summer league team.
And he picked up right where he left off in his preseason debut, showing his offensive skill set translates on the court against genuine NBA talents.
The Lakers rookie looked sharp during LA’s 127-103 win over the Kings on Monday at Golden 1 Center, scoring 19 points on 7-of-13 shooting (3 of 7 on 3-pointers) in 23 minutes off the bench in the Lakers’ preseason opener.
“Every chance I get to step on the court,” Carr said, “just growing in areas and just getting more comfortable with just playing in the offense and being efficient.”
Carr said he was nervous ahead of his first exhibition.
But it didn’t show — outside of bobbling the basketball ahead of a dunk in the open court in the second quarter.
He was the team’s leading scorer behind superstar guard Luka Doncic (21 points), who played in his first game in over six months.
“I was definitely nervous, but I mean, it’s basketball,” Carr said. “I go out there and another opportunity to play basketball and now at the highest level. So it’s fun. Get to compete with my guys.”
But just like during the summer, Carr didn’t focus too much of his attention on what he did offensively.
He continued to discuss what he needs to do defensively to earn a consistent spot in the rotation.
And Carr got a firsthand look at what coach JJ Redick expects from the wings defensively, with Matisse Thybulle, Ziaire Williams, Quentin Grimes and Adou Thiero each taking turns picking up full court and hounding the Kings’ ball handlers.
“Just staying on top of my cues,” Carr said. “Don’t be late and don’t give lapses up. I mean, these dudes guard, they’re in the right spot, so just be in the right spot for them.”
Carr continues to make a strong case for himself to get meaningful playing time once the Lakers’ regular season starts with their Opening Night matchup against the Warriors on Oct. 21.
Whether he earns that spot will depend less on what he offers offensively and more about if he can keep up on the defensive end of the floor.
“A great example — just watching and learning,” Carr said. “Pick up whatever I can from them and just try to implement it and do it … myself.”
