(Barry Gorsuch/NBAE Photo via Getty Images)
One of the most surprising storylines for the Los Angeles Lakers this week involves Cam Reddish. When head coach Davon Hamm moved Reddish into the starting lineup and moved Austin Reeves to the bench, it proved to have an impact on the 24-year-old.
Since joining the starting five on November 10, Reddish has scored in double figures in every game. His best performance came against the Portland Trail Blazers on November 12, when he scored 18 points and grabbed 7 rebounds on 7-for-10 shooting.
It’s clear that the wing needs some confidence due to some shooting struggles early in the season. While it’s a shocking move, the adjustment has proven to be effective so far, and LeBron James isn’t surprised by Reddish’s recent consistency.
“Nothing,” James said when asked what surprised him about Reddish’s performance. “I already know what Cam is capable of. I think Cam just needs someone to believe in him. A locker room that believes in him, people that continue to follow him and let him know how impressive he is, not only as a What a special player and person he is. The talent is there, it’s always been there, sometimes people just need a little help, a little push.”
A 2019 lottery pick, Reddish has struggled in the league and is playing for his fourth team in his young career. He’s still growing as a player, but James picked the right moments to speak in his ear.
“When the time comes. I’m not a drill sergeant. I’m not in his ear all day, or every day, every minute, every second. But I do choose the right moment and stay in a very positive way. To be around him because I think he’s very special. I think he can do some great things in this league and I think he came back and showed why he was so highly sought after coming out of high school and being the top guy coming out of high school at that time One of the top prospects. So we wanted to keep him, I just think his talent is limitless. He can do a lot of things on the court – shoot, shoot, finish at the rim, defend at a high level. “He has it all. “
Reddish has been a rumored trade candidate with the Lakers for the past few seasons, eventually signing with the Lakers this summer. Entering a winning environment led by James, Anthony Davis and other veterans was expected to help its development, and it’s already doing so.
Whether Reddish’s starting job is sustainable for the foreseeable future remains to be seen, but gaining experience and finding new confidence as the season progresses can only help.
Reddish thanks D’Angelo Russell for support
D’Angelo Russell is one of Reddish’s mentors. The starting point guard has taken on the responsibility of supporting Reddish through his highs and lows, and the 24-year-old is grateful for Russell’s support.
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