In one of the most talked-about trades in recent NBA history, the Los Angeles Lakers’ acquisition of Luka Doncic from the Dallas Mavericks has dominated headlines.
While the spotlight has been on Doncic’s move to L.A., one crucial aspect of the deal has been largely overlooked: Max Christie, the 21-year-old wing who was included in the trade package and moved in the opposite direction.
While the focus has been on the exchange of star power, Christie could end up being a key figure in the Mavericks’ future success.
Christie’s role and potential impact
A five-star recruit from Michigan State, Christie was selected by the Lakers in the second round of the 2022 NBA Draft. Though drafted later than many expected, he has demonstrated steady growth in his first two seasons.
After a shaky start to the 2024-25 campaign, where he found himself out of the Lakers’ rotation, Christie worked his way back and earned a regular starting spot. Through 46 games this season, including 25 starts, he has averaged 8.5 points, 2.7 rebounds and 1.4 assists. His shooting, particularly from three-point range, has been impressive, with a 36.8 percent conversion rate.
The 6-foot-5 guard’s true value, however, lies in his two-way potential. His size and athleticism allow him to guard multiple positions, making him an ideal fit for the Mavericks’ defensive needs. While Dallas has often struggled on defense, Christie’s versatility could provide the team with much-needed balance, especially as it looks to complement the offensive dynamism of Kyrie Irving and the newly acquired Anthony Davis.
A new chapter for the Mavericks
The trade marks a significant shift for the Mavericks, who have been built around Doncic’s superstar talent. With the Slovenian now in Los Angeles, Dallas is aiming to retool its roster and become a more well-rounded team.
The addition of Davis, known for his elite defensive ability, alongside Christie, offers the Mavericks an opportunity to diversify their approach and address long-standing issues.
With Davis anchoring the defense and Irving running the offense, the Mavericks will need players who can contribute across the board. Christie fits this mold perfectly, as his ability to defend and shoot provides the team with a versatile weapon on both ends of the floor.
As he continues to develop, the youngster has the potential to grow into a more significant role, especially as the Mavericks build around Davis and Irving.
The long-term impact of the trade
While Doncic’s departure is the centerpiece of the trade, Christie’s inclusion could ultimately prove to be the most impactful element for the Mavericks long-term. His development over the next few seasons could help determine how well Dallas fares in the post-Doncic era.
The former Spartan’s defensive prowess and the potential to improve offensively give Dallas a promising prospect who could eventually grow into a key contributor. As the Mavericks integrate their new acquisitions, Christie’s growth will be pivotal.
While it’s too early to predict exactly how Christie’s career will unfold, his inclusion in this trade could be the hidden gem that shapes the Mavericks’ future success.
