Rick Scutli-USA TODAY Sports
The Los Angeles Lakers made a bold move in their starting lineup against the Phoenix Suns on Friday night, replacing Austin Reeves with veteran minimum-salary signing Cam Reddish. The move was quickly criticized, but Reddish proved himself with 17 points on 5-of-10 shooting and three steals in a thrilling 122-119 victory.
Reddish’s performance drew praise from LeBron James, who said it was his trust in Reddish that allowed him to pitch the way he wanted even when pitchers were struggling. It’s a huge change of pace for the young guard/forward, who has bounced between three teams without finding a consistent role in the NBA.
Reddish said James’ praise and the Lakers’ belief in him during the offseason are part of the reason he will continue to work hard and be ready when his number is called. Spectrum SportsNet Reporter:
“I was trying to be ready. LeBron was right there, so you always have to be ready. I missed the last game, so I was trying to really lock down their corner shots. LeBron told me he believed in me, so I Just try to remember that and shoot with confidence and knock them down.”
Reddish’s path has been a winding one, and he keeps that in mind every time he steps onto an NBA court:
“I’ve been through it all. Ups and downs, you name it, I’ve been there, seen it all. Different teams. Different roles. So I’m blessed to still be playing basketball in the NBA. I’m happy to be here Up here, I just want to make an impact every time I step on the court. The Lakers gave me a chance, so I’m going to give it my all whenever I get the chance.”
Reddish is not expected to play a major role with the Lakers in 2023-24, let alone start three of the team’s first nine games. However, he did prove that the Lakers made a smart choice when betting on him this offseason.
If Reddish can continue to perform at this level against quality opponents, he could easily find his first consistent role as an NBA player in five seasons.
Explained to Reeves moving Manu Ginobili’s role to bench
Reeves was certainly less than enthusiastic when he learned he would be on the bench after eight games. However, he became more comfortable with the decision when head coach Davon Hamm explained to him that the move was similar to the one Manu Ginobili made for the San Antonio Spurs dynasty.
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