Lakers trade up to No. 24 pick, select Cameron Carr in multi-team draft swap

The Los Angeles Lakers executed a last-minute trade on June 24, 2026, to move up to the No. 24 overall pick and select Cameron Carr, a guard from Baylor University. The deal was part of a three-team swap involving the New York Knicks, Dallas Mavericks, and Phoenix Suns, with the defending NBA champion Knicks trading out of the first round entirely in exchange for multiple second-round picks and cash considerations.

In the first trade, the Lakers sent cash to the Knicks to acquire the No. 24 pick, with the Knicks receiving the Lakers' No. 25 pick (Sergio De Larrea). The Knicks then traded De Larrea and additional picks to the Mavericks, who traded the No. 30 pick (Koa Peat) to the Suns. Through this orchestrated sequence, the Knicks accumulated five second-round selections—including picks No. 31, 47, and 55—along with draft rights to previously selected player Melvin Ajinça and multiple future second-round picks.

Carr, 21, had a breakout collegiate season at Baylor after transferring from Tennessee. He averaged 18.9 points, 5.8 rebounds, and 2.6 assists per game while shooting 49.4 percent from the field and 37.4 percent from three-point range. Scouts highlighted his offensive versatility, three-point shooting ability, exceptional wingspan-to-height ratio, and elite athleticism as NBA-caliber strengths. However, evaluators noted that his relatively light frame at 184 pounds and limited defensive consistency remain areas for development.

For the Lakers, acquiring Carr addresses a significant need from the previous season. The team had struggled with athleticism and bench scoring, and Carr's physical tools and offensive range are expected to complement the roster. His ability to attack closeouts, shoot from deep, and finish with his length were cited as key factors in the selection. The trade also aligns with the Knicks' strategy to maintain their championship roster within salary cap constraints, as owner James Dolan sought to avoid exceeding the second apron threshold.