The Los Angeles Lakers lost their first summer league game to the Miami Heat 107-90. Despite a double-digit loss, the Lakers were led by Max Christie, who scored 17 points, six rebounds, and four assists. The Miami Heat were led by Jaime Jaquez Jr., who scored a game-high 22 points. The Lakers will look to bounce back in their next summer league game Wednesday vs. the number one draft pick Victor Wembanyama and the San Antonio Spurs.
Young Guards Lead Lakers in First Summer League Game
Lakers Player Spotlight
The Lakers drafted Michigan State’s guard Max Christie with the number 35 overall pick in the 2022 NBA draft. The franchise sent cash and a 2028 second-round pick to the Orlando Magic to acquire the pick. Since then, Christie has been assigned to the South Bay Lakers of the G League, but the Lakers’ front office quickly recognized his potential and promoted him to the main roster shortly after. Although Christie rarely saw the floor, he was able to be around the team and soak up the game. In practice, Christie was able to learn from the veteran players, aiding in his development.
Yesterday, Max Christie scored a team-high 17 points on 66.6 TS%.
Dynamic with the ball in his hands, Christie consistently got paint touches and displayed good touch; he was comfortable getting to pull-ups & step-backs. Factor in his defense, and he’s rotation-bound for LA. pic.twitter.com/ydeN3H5QoK
— Charlie Spungin (@CharlieSpungin) July 4, 2023
In 13 appearances for the South Bay Lakers, Christie averaged 14.3 points, 5.2 rebounds, and 2.1 assists in 29 minutes per game. Entering his second season with the team, Christie could become a key piece in the Lakers’ rotation. He can create off the dribble, shoot from deep, and defend multiple positions. His versatility and skill set will benefit the team this season.
Jalen Hood-Schifino
Jalen Hood-Schifino, on the other hand, had a lackluster summer league debut but could still turn out to be a key contributor to the team. Hood finished with 15 points, five rebounds and four assists. He has the ability to finish around the rim, can stretch the floor with his shooting, and is a tenacious defender. With the right coaching, Jalen could become a valuable asset to the Lakers.
Nice drive and finish by Jalen Hood-Schifino here: pic.twitter.com/AZjAABh34f
— Lakers Nation (@LakersNation) July 3, 2023
The Lakers player development team has the tools to help him reach his full potential. He has the skill set to contribute in the league. Jalen is an exciting prospect to watch and has a bright future.
Assistant Coach DeMarre Carroll Joins the Lakers
Speaking of coaching, the Los Angeles Lakers have hired DeMarre Carroll as an assistant coach on Head Coach Darvin Ham’s staff. Carroll joins the Lakers after spending last season with Mike Budenholzer and the Milwaukee Bucks. Neither Ham nor Caroll are strangers to one another. Ham was an assistant coach on the Atlanta Hawks when Carroll was in the league. Although it is early in his coaching career, Carroll’s wealth of knowledge and experience of the game could be valuable to some of the younger Laker players.
The Lakers are hiring DeMarre Carroll as an asst coach on Darvin Ham's staff, sources told ESPN. Carroll worked for Mike Budenholzer in MIL last season. Ham, Carroll and Bud were all in Atlanta together when ATL went 60-22 w/ Carroll as the starting SF and was No. 1 in the East
— Dave McMenamin (@mcten) July 3, 2023
Ham is entering his second season as a Head Coach, and Laker fans are optimistic that he can bring a championship to the city of angels. He has already assembled a strong coaching staff and is well aware of what it takes to build a championship team. Ham has the support of the front office, and the players are excited to play for him. With the right pieces in place, the Lakers have the potential to have a special season.
