In one of the talked-about trades in current NBA historical past, the Los Angeles Lakers’ acquisition of Luka Doncic from the Dallas Mavericks has dominated headlines.
Whereas the highlight has been on Doncic’s transfer to L.A., one essential side of the deal has been largely ignored: Max Christie, the 21-year-old wing who was included within the commerce package deal and moved in the wrong way.
Whereas the main target has been on the trade of star energy, Christie might find yourself being a key determine within the Mavericks’ future success.
Christie’s position and potential influence
A five-star recruit from Michigan State, Christie was chosen by the Lakers within the second spherical of the 2022 NBA Draft. Although drafted later than many anticipated, he has demonstrated regular progress in his first two seasons.
After a shaky begin to the 2024-25 marketing campaign, the place he discovered himself out of the Lakers’ rotation, Christie labored his approach again and earned an everyday beginning spot. Via 46 video games this season, together with 25 begins, he has averaged 8.5 factors, 2.7 rebounds and 1.4 assists. His taking pictures, significantly from three-point vary, has been spectacular, with a 36.8 p.c conversion charge.
The 6-foot-5 guard’s true worth, nevertheless, lies in his two-way potential. His dimension and athleticism enable him to protect a number of positions, making him a really perfect match for the Mavericks’ defensive wants. Whereas Dallas has usually struggled on protection, Christie’s versatility might present the workforce with much-needed steadiness, particularly because it appears to enrich the offensive dynamism of Kyrie Irving and the newly acquired Anthony Davis.
A brand new chapter for the Mavericks
The commerce marks a big shift for the Mavericks, who’ve been constructed round Doncic’s celebrity expertise. With the Slovenian now in Los Angeles, Dallas is aiming to retool its roster and grow to be a extra well-rounded workforce.
The addition of Davis, identified for his elite defensive potential, alongside Christie, presents the Mavericks a chance to diversify their method and tackle long-standing points.
With Davis anchoring the protection and Irving operating the offense, the Mavericks will want gamers who can contribute throughout the board. Christie suits this mildew completely, as his potential to defend and shoot supplies the workforce with a flexible weapon on each ends of the ground.
As he continues to develop, the teenager has the potential to develop right into a extra important position, particularly because the Mavericks construct round Davis and Irving.
The long-term influence of the commerce
Whereas Doncic’s departure is the centerpiece of the commerce, Christie’s inclusion might finally show to be essentially the most impactful aspect for the Mavericks long-term. His growth over the subsequent few seasons might assist decide how nicely Dallas fares within the post-Doncic period.
The previous Spartan’s defensive prowess and the potential to enhance offensively give Dallas a promising prospect who might finally develop right into a key contributor. Because the Mavericks combine their new acquisitions, Christie’s progress might be pivotal.
Whereas it’s too early to foretell precisely how Christie’s profession will unfold, his inclusion on this commerce may very well be the hidden gem that shapes the Mavericks’ future success.
