Cam Reddish got what he asked for
Reddish experienced a lot of the same sort of rise and fall as Collins in terms of being a part of the Hawks’ plans, albeit in a much shorter timeframe. The No. 10 overall pick in 2019, Reddish – like Collins – dealt with injuries that stunted his development. Not content with his role, Reddish requested a trade during the 2021 postseason run to the Eastern Conference Finals.
The Hawks acquiesced, sending Reddish to the New York Knicks ahead of the deadline in 2022, receiving forward Kevin Knox – a former first-round pick himself – and a first-round draft pick via the Charlotte Hornets for their troubles.
Knox was allowed to walk in free agency. But the Hawks used the draft pick in the package sent to the San Antonio Spurs ahead of last season for Dejounte Murray.
Leading the league with TWENTY-ONE steals in November: Cam Reddish.
— Los Angeles Lakers (@Lakers) November 19, 2023
Laker Film Room: Cam's Pressure Defense pic.twitter.com/NZYCozz2tv
It did not go well for Reddish with the Knicks. He never established himself in New York amid reports Knicks head coach Tom Thibodeau never wanted the deal to occur. The Knicks traded him to the Portland Trail Blazers at the following deadline.
Reddish got into Portland’s rotation late last season, playing well.
He did enough to draw the Los Angeles Lakers’ interest in free agency, signing a two-year, $4.6 million contract. Amid a slew of injuries, Reddish has found himself in the starting lineup in six straight contests and eight of the last 10 for the Lakers.
Reddish is leading the Lakers in steals in November while averaging 10.8 points on 59.2% true shooting, connecting on 41.2% of his deep looks and adding 3.1 rebounds and 1.5 assists.
He might not keep the role as they get healthy. But he still has the skillset to remain successful.