JUST IN: The Trade to the Dallas Mavericks Has Unleashed Max Christie’s Full Potential
When Max Christie was selected in the second round of the 2022 NBA Draft by the Los Angeles Lakers, expectations were cautiously optimistic. He was seen as a promising young guard with the tools to develop into a reliable contributor, but minutes were hard to come by on a veteran-heavy roster built to win now. Despite flashes of brilliance, Christie struggled to find a consistent role amid the Lakers’ championship aspirations and roster logjams.
That all changed with his midseason trade to the Dallas Mavericks.
Since arriving in Dallas, Christie has not only received more consistent playing time, but also the trust and responsibility that had previously eluded him. The Mavericks, known for their player development and willingness to empower young talent, gave Christie the green light to play through mistakes and grow. In return, he has rewarded them with breakout performances and steady improvement across the board.
More importantly, Christie’s mental approach appears to have shifted. With more minutes and a clearer sense of purpose, he’s playing with renewed confidence and aggression. His ability to read the floor, make the right decisions, and compete on both ends has impressed teammates and fans, who now see him as a key part of the Mavericks’ future rotation.
Head coach Jason Kidd has also highlighted Christie’s professionalism and work ethic, noting how seamlessly he has integrated into the team’s culture. “He’s a guy who listens, learns, and competes. You can’t ask for much more from a young player,” Kidd remarked recently.
While Christie’s journey is far from over, it’s clear that the change of scenery has unlocked a level of play that once seemed only theoretical. In Dallas, he’s not just surviving — he’s flourishing.
The Mavericks may have gained more than they expected when they acquired Max Christie. And now, with the opportunity to grow in a system that believes in him, Christie is finally showing the NBA what he’s truly capable of.