The Los Angeles Lakers are facing a difficult situation early in the 2023-24 season, with a concerning 3-5 record, placing them 11th in the Western Conference. Their depth is being tested because several rotation players are out of the lineup, causing others to step up. Among them, Cam Reddish has been given a bigger role but has not performed offensively as expected, becoming a focal point for fan disappointment.
Reddish’s performance particularly his 12.5% three-point shooting accuracy has been a problem. This came to light after he missed a game-winning shot in a narrow loss to the Miami Heat. Reddish’s season averages of 4.4 points, 2.5 rebounds, and 1.0 assistss over eight games are not even close to what the Lakers need.
Cam Reddish this season:
7 points
4 points
0 points
0 points
8 points
2 points
7 points
7 points pic.twitter.com/3QZI8dq9Ov— Legion Hoops (@LegionHoops) November 9, 2023
Recently, Reddish’s poor offensive statistics went viral, after which NBA fans took to social media to slam him. One fan stated, “Trade him ASAP.”
Some fans took jabs at him with comments like, “How many chances is he gonna get 😂,” and “Bro better learn Chinese,” suggesting his play may be more suited to leagues outside of the NBA.
LeBron James and Darvin Ham remain confident in Cam Reddish
Despite the Lakers fans criticizing Reddish, important members of the Lakers organization have kept their faith in him. LeBron James and head coach Darvin Ham have shown support for the young player, even after the missed opportunity against the Heat.
Reddish missed a game-winning three-pointer in the final moments of the game against the Miami Heat. Regardless of this, James has encouraged Reddish to maintain his readiness for future games, emphasizing the possibility of more opportunities.
James said via Spectrum SportsNet: “Just be ready again. Because there will be many more opportunities, especially from me. I know I’m gonna see two defenders late in games so just be ready.”
LeBron James speaks on the refs’ missed calls, the intensity in the 4th quarter, and his opinion of the In-Season Tournament. pic.twitter.com/HaPpCvHIyq
— Spectrum SportsNet (@SpectrumSN) November 7, 2023
Darvin Ham also praised Reddish for his overall contributions to the game. According to Ham, the team’s close game against the Heat was largely due to Reddish’s defensive efforts and other offensive contributions.
“He works on that shot every day,” Ham said. “So we encourage him to be there to make that shot, to take that shot at least. And we’re not in that game, it’s not that close of a game without Cam Reddish’s contributions on the defensive end and some of the things he did offensively. He was spectacular tonight.”
As the season progresses, the Lakers’ leadership seems committed to supporting Reddish’s development and readiness for important moments. The Lakers have faith that Reddish will bounce back and contribute meaningfully to their team.