A 2022 overall draft pick like Max Christie requires a team and management akin to that of the LA Lakers to nurture his development as a player. The 19-year-old seems to be progressing steadily and has evidently impressed the top management officials of the team with his skills and abilities.
Despite a gradual start to his NBA career, he has garnered admiration from LeBron James, who acknowledges his exceptional talent, leaving fans eager to witness Max showcasing his skills in the upcoming season.
Lakers’ 35th overall pick Max Christie enters second NBA season
Lakers’ 35th overall pick, Max Christie, is embarking on his second NBA season with great promise. Despite some initial shooting struggles during the Summer League, the Lakers remain confident in his abilities. Christie, a five-star recruit and No. 3 ranked shooting guard in his class, signed a fully guaranteed two-year, $2.74 million deal in July.
While his three-point shooting performance in the Summer League raised some concerns at just 20%, the Lakers are particularly impressed with his defensive prowess, thanks to his impressive 6-foot-9 wingspan. Jesse Buss, vice president of player development and research, lauds Christie’s maturity, depth of answers, and strong skill set.
Christie’s defensive efforts have been highly praised, with assistant coach Jordan Ott emphasizing the importance of his defensive contributions. The Lakers have a history of nurturing young talents into key assets. They have nurtured Brandon Ingram, Ivica Zubac, Lonzo Ball, Kyle Kuzma, and Austin Reaves. Fans can expect Max Christie to continue developing and making waves in the NBA in his second season.
Christie’s layup leaves an impression on LeBron James
LeBron James stated at the Lakers‘ media day on Monday that he remain the face of the Lakers and went on to say that there great numbers surrounding this facility including AD who is tipped to succeed LeBron as the face Lakers in no distant time.
LeBron James noticed Max Christie’s impressive layup during the Los Angeles Lakers’ training camp practice, and it has certainly made an impression on LeBron as he embarks on his 21st NBA season. In his pursuit of another championship, LeBron recognizes the importance of his teammates stepping up.
On his Instagram story, LeBron shared Lakers highlights, prominently featuring Max Christie’s challenging layup against none other than Anthony Davis. This gesture speaks volumes about Christie’s potential and the attention he’s been gaining within the team.
In his rookie season, Max Christie, the 35th overall pick in the 2022 NBA Draft, contributed 3.1 points and 1.8 rebounds in 41 games while averaging 12 minutes of playing time. He will be looking to make his stats better as the season stats soon.
