The Lakers' first offseason signing brought in a 3-and-D player, averaging 18.9 points, 5.8 rebounds, 2.6 assists, and 1.3 blocks per game.

Today, the annual NBA Draft was held, with the Lakers trading their 25th pick and some cash to the Knicks for the 24th pick, selecting 3-and-D wing Cameron Carr.

After that, the Knicks used the Lakers' 25th pick to get the Mavericks' 30th pick and two second-round picks, then traded the 30th pick to the Suns for three second-round picks and some cash. In summary: the Knicks turned the 24th pick into five second-round picks and two cash payments. Since first-round rookies earn higher salaries than second-rounders, the Knicks both saved money and made a profit. Truly worthy of being defending champions.

Cameron Carr stands 1.96 meters tall with an impressive wingspan of 2.16 meters. His vertical leap is 42.5 inches (108 cm), ranking second among guard prospects this year. During the 2025-26 season, Carr played 34 games for Baylor University, averaging 33.7 minutes, 18.9 points, 5.8 rebounds, 2.6 assists, 1.3 blocks, 0.9 steals, and 2.4 turnovers, shooting 49.4% from the field, 37.4% from three, and 80.1% from the free-throw line.

NBA reporter Jake Weinbach said: "For the Lakers, picking Carr at 24 is an absolute steal. He has a 7-foot-1-inch (2.16m) wingspan, explosive athleticism, and a wide shooting range. He has the potential to develop into a reliable 3-and-D wing in the NBA."

Lakers media personality Mike Garcia commented: "Like Adou Thiero, Carr is a top-tier athlete. He has excellent elevation on his three-point shots and can hit pull-up threes. He basically finished his combine workouts early because he was on fire. He's an elite finisher above the rim and poses a major lob threat at the shooting guard position, assuming he ultimately stays with the Lakers."

NBA reporter Evan Sidery updated his social media: "Carr has huge long-term potential as a partner for Luka Dončić."

Former NBA player DeMarcus Cousins also said Carr fits well with Dončić, noting that his passing ability, transition running, athleticism, and shooting potential all complement Dončić's game.

Carr's father participated in the 1997 NBA Slam Dunk Contest, eventually losing to Kobe Bryant and finishing second. The player wearing the Timberwolves' No. 43 jersey in the picture is Carr's father—Chris Carr.

Chris Carr played six seasons in the NBA, appearing in 297 games and averaging 6.7 points and 2.2 rebounds per game.

Before the draft, most mock drafts projected Cameron Carr to be selected at No. 20, but the Lakers grabbed him at No. 24, which can be considered a small steal.

Let's talk about LeBron James.

Recently, on the podcast "Mind the Game," James discussed the white suit he wore to the 2003 NBA Draft: "That suit haunts me—it's an unforgettable black mark on my history. Now that draft season is here again, people immediately think of that suit. Rest in peace to the late David Stern. He tried on my suit jacket backstage and was completely swallowed by it."

Additionally, James advised young players not to be discouraged if they aren't selected in the first round, fall to the second round, or even go undrafted entirely.

James cited examples of second-round picks like Nikola Jokić and Draymond Green, reminding young players that even without being a first-rounder, they can still carve out a place in the NBA. He also mentioned undrafted Austin Reaves, who earned opportunities through hard work despite not being selected.

This year, many rookies still look up to James as their idol. If LeBron starts his 24th season, he'll once again face players more than 20 years his junior.