Cam Reddish shines in Lithuania, reigniting NBA aspirations with stunning performances
The narrative of forgotten NBA players often takes a sharp turn once they venture beyond American shores, where they can find new opportunities to revive their careers. One such player, Cam Reddish, who once donned the Los Angeles Lakers jersey, is making headlines in the Lithuanian Basketball League (LKL) with performances that have reignited hopes of a return to the NBA.
Dominating the Lithuanian League
Reddish’s recent form has been nothing short of spectacular. According to reports, he has averaged an impressive 18.7 points per game, along with 5.7 rebounds and a notable Performance Index Rating (PIR) of 24.3 over his last three outings. Such numbers highlight Reddish’s ability to impact the game significantly, showcasing a level of play that many believed was still within him.
The Duke Experience and Its Impact
Before entering the NBA Draft in 2019, Reddish faced challenges during his time at Duke University, where he shared the court with high-profile talents like Zion Williamson and RJ Barrett. This trio, while brimming with potential, often relegated Reddish to a lesser role, limiting his opportunities to shine. During that season, he averaged 13.5 points, shooting just 35.6% from the field and 33.3% from beyond the arc. His struggles stemmed from the demand to adapt to a secondary playmaker role, diminishing his natural strengths.
Challenges in the NBA
Reddish’s journey in the NBA has been rocky. After being selected in the first round, he joined the Atlanta Hawks but quickly found himself overshadowed, unable to carve out a primary scoring role. His subsequent stints with the New York Knicks and Portland Trail Blazers yielded little success, culminating in a brief, underwhelming period with the Lakers where he averaged less than six points per game. The Lakers, in need of consistent performance, ultimately waived him before the end of March, marking a disappointing chapter in his NBA career.
A Fresh Start in Lithuania
In September, Reddish signed with Siauliai, a team competing in the LKL. This move has proven to be rejuvenating for the 26-year-old. With the freedom to play his game without the constraints that plagued his time in the NBA, Reddish is beginning to regain the confidence that once made him a highly touted prospect. His performances have captured the attention of fans and scouts alike, sparking discussions about the possibility of an NBA team reaching out as the season progresses.
As Reddish continues to shine in Lithuania, the question remains: could this be the turning point in his career, leading him back to the NBA? The spotlight is on him, and for the first time in a while, it seems that the narrative around Cam Reddish might be changing for the better.
