I’ve been closely following the journey of forward Cam Reddish as he navigates the challenges of transitioning his game to fit the needs of his team. Reddish, a former lottery pick, has had an up-and-down start to his NBA career, but his recent performances suggest he’s starting to find his feet.
Reddish is demonstrating a renewed focus and commitment to the defensive end of the court after entering the starting lineup against the Toronto Raptors, a shift that has earned him more playing time and trust from Lakers head coach JJ Redick.
“Every team is different, and every coach is different,” Reddish explained after a recent practice. “I go out there and do what he tells me to do. In my past life, I was going out there doing what I wanted to do. This approach doesn’t always yield the desired results.
This mentality shift is a testament to Reddish’s growth and maturity as a player. Entering the league as a highly-touted prospect, he was accustomed to being the primary offensive option, both in high school and college. However, the NBA has presented a different challenge, requiring Reddish to adapt his game and find ways to contribute that don’t always involve scoring.
“Growing up, I was always getting the ball.” So I didn’t know anything else, you know what I mean? However, I am now compelled to learn and enhance my skills, a process that takes time, but gradually, I sense that I am improving.
Redick, who played in the NBA for 15 seasons, understands the evolution Reddish has had to go through. “I can empathize with him for sure because, like a lot of NBA players, you’re the No. 1 option in high school, you’re the No. 1 option in college, and then you get to the NBA, you’re struggling to carve out a role, and you have to figure that out.”
Reddish’s newfound focus on defense has been key to his recent success. In the Lakers’ win over the Philadelphia 76ers, Reddish’s tenacious defense on star forward Paul George was a significant factor in the team’s victory.
“We need Cam to maintain a defensive presence, guard the primary matchup, and be the primary scorer,” Redick stated. “Early in the preseason, I told him, ‘Look, we’re going to figure out the offensive part of it and where we can have you feel like you have a role there.'” However, in order for you to contribute on the field, your role must be on the defensive side. Over the past week, he has truly embraced that.
This shift in mindset and role has resulted in a decrease in Reddish’s offensive production, with the forward averaging just 2.3 field goal attempts per game this season, a significant drop from his previous five seasons in the league. However, Reddish understands the importance of his new responsibilities and is committed to making the most of his opportunities.
“I mean, I didn’t have much of an option,” Reddish said. “I kept getting traded. You just learn throughout those years. It’s a learning experience. It’s a journey. Just learning every day.”
While Reddish’s offensive role has diminished, the Lakers are hopeful that he can continue to contribute in other ways, particularly on the defensive end. Redick believes that if Reddish can maintain his defensive intensity and occasionally knock down open shots, he could solidify his place in the team’s starting lineup.
“The key for Reddish will be playing consistent individual defense and hitting often enough from 3-point range. If he does those two things on the regular, perhaps he will remain in L.A.’s starting five through the new calendar year and possibly for longer than that.”
As the Lakers navigate the ups and downs of the NBA season, the development of players like Cam Reddish will be crucial to their success. With his newfound commitment to his role and a willingness to adapt his game, Reddish is proving that he’s willing to do whatever it takes to help his team win. It’s a testament to his resilience and a promising sign for the Lakers as they look to climb the standings in the Western Conference.