Max Christie, the Los Angeles Lakers’ swingman, started his third season with a bit of uncertainty, but has since found his rhythm.
Before Los Angeles made its trade for three-and-D wing Dorian Finney-Smith and point guard Shake Milton, Christie had already emerged as head coach JJ Redick’s preferred choice to complete the starting five.
Although Finney-Smith’s arrival could impact his role, Christie has begun to fulfill the expectations set by the four-year, $32MM contract he signed to remain with the Lakers this past summer.
In an extensive interview with The Athletic’s Jovan Buha, the player opened up about his evolving third season.
“There are a lot of things that happen in the offseason where you get re-signed, I have expectations for myself,” Christie explained.
“I think I had too much emphasis on trying to play perfectly [early in the season], do all the right things, and that led to me kind of thinking all the time when I’m out there. I wasn’t flowing. I wasn’t free.”
This early struggle stemmed from his desire to meet high standards, which hindered his natural game. However, over the past month, Christie has found a new level of comfort and confidence.
“It’s been really good so far, honestly. I look back at it and reflect on my whole career up to this point,” he said. “I hadn’t really played a lot, and then I was just trying to work and work and work.”
Christie’s perseverance is now paying off, as he’s embraced his role and stepped up when needed, solidifying his place in the rotation.
Lakers Notes: James, Christie, Finney-Smith, Trade Assets https://t.co/zUGdxeHd41 pic.twitter.com/YjDCoX8lJp
— Hoops Rumors (@HoopsRumors) December 30, 2024
