Lakers 2024-2025 Player Preview: Max Christie
Max Christie’s development took a major step forward as he secured a four-year, $32 million contract extension with the Lakers, solidifying his future with the team.
His minutes and role last season were inconsistent, often influenced by lineup adjustments under former head coach Darvin Ham. Christie averaged 4/2/1 in 14 minutes per game on 43/36/81 shooting splits.
Heading into this season, the Lakers expect Christie to carve out a more prominent role. Media Day highlighted his growing confidence, and with the contract extension in place, it’s clear the team sees potential in his continued growth.
During the Lakers’ first practice, JJ Redick mentioned that Christie has “earned our trust” in recent months. However, this doesn’t guarantee the former Michigan State Spartan a lock in the rotation. Redick also discussed the competition: “There’s a lot of guys competing for spots. I’ve always envisioned a 9-man rotation in the regular season, so there’s definitely competition for that ninth spot.”
Coach JJ Redick praised Max Christie after the Lakers’ first practice.
— Mike Bresnahan (@Mike_Bresnahan) October 1, 2024
“Max Christie is a guy who’s earned our coaching staff’s trust” the last few months, Redick said.
Christie didn’t see much time at the end of last season but stayed with the team on a four-year contract.
Battle for a rotation spot
Redick mentioned a pool of players that would be competing for a roster spot. Those names were Gabe Vincent, Jarred Vanderbilt, Jaxson Hayes, Christie, Cam Reddish, and Jalen Hood-Schifino.
To secure a role in Redick’s lineup, Christie will need to make use of his size and versatility. Much like Redick’s emphasis on Rui Hachimura crashing the boards and defending, Christie must contribute with smart cuts and off-ball movement to fit into the transient coaching style.
The potential is there. Christie ranked in the 64th percentile for offensive rebounding quality (ORB), 65th percentile in three-point attempt rate (3PAr), averaged -2.5 in rim defense rating (65th percentile), and placed in the 80th percentile for relative personal fouls (rPF).
With the season approaching, Christie’s development will be vital for his future with the Lakers. If he can leverage his strengths and improve his shooting consistency, he stands a strong chance of earning a consistent spot in the rotation.
As he continues to develop, Christie has the potential to be a key contributor, aligning with the team’s championship goals.
