Fresh off of signing a long-term deal to stay in Los Angeles, Lakers guard Max Christie appeared on the podcast “Buha’s Block” with The Athletic’s Jovan Buha. Among the topics discussed was his growth heading into his third year as well as how this year’s roster—despite glaring inactivity—is shaping up.
Lakers Guard Reveals Thoughts on 2024-25 Roster
Max Christie Talks Lakers
When it comes to a lack of roster changes, Christie pointed to the continuity that winning teams have established—citing what the Celtics and Timberwolves have done—and how it’s become a key factor for the Lakers to maintain.
“If you kind of look at the blueprint with teams that have been winning recently, for the most part, a lot of those teams stick together for a while, right? They’re not necessarily last-minute [additions]…I like the idea of us kind of running it back with the group that we have, because I thought we really got along well.”
But aside from the team chemistry, Christie believes success will come down to increased and consistent reps.
”I think we’re getting a lot more reps together, we’re getting a lot more comfortable together…We have two rookies with Dalton and Bronny, Gabe and Vando are both healthy, and then hopefully I’m looking to make an impact as well. On paper especially, we’re a really, really good team. Now, we just gotta put it into practice and…show what we’re capable of.”
And despite the Lakers’ postseason losses to Denver—which can be blamed in large part on an inability to finish games—Christie’s message is: “We’re right there,” adding: “We might as well just keep trying to build together. I’m looking forward to this season. I think we can really do a good job. In the West, it’s tough, but I think that’ll help us.”
Where Christie Sees Himself Fitting in
Christie not only believes this team is good enough to run it back, but he’s embracing an increased role with them as well. This summer, Christie and Redick have focused on off-ball movement. He noted that his responsibilities will include taking pressure off of LA’s ball handlers, whether that’s LeBron James and Anthony Davis or D’Angelo Russell, Austin Reaves and Gabe Vincent.
“There’s gonna be…a lot of free-flowing movement in our offense with cuts and pin-downs and all sorts of stuff. That’s what I’ve been working on here at home and especially with the coaches in Vegas and in California, too. A lot of that off-ball movement, catching and shooting, playing off of close-outs. Stuff that I really have done my first two years and expanding on it a little bit more. I think we’re all on the same page with that stuff, and I think we’re all in agreement that I’m gonna be a good part of the offense and defense and the rotation in general. I’m looking forward to that.”
Christie displayed his potential as a 3-and-D wing in the limited opportunities he received last season. The fact that he has worked on moving off the ball and made strides defensively is an exciting tidbit fans can appreciate. Christie already displayed a level of comfortability next to LA’s core group. His flow within the new-look offense and defense should make him a bigger threat to opposing wings. Christie’s perimeter presence on both ends will also be vital towards his minutes, considering the Lakers, at times, lacked a bench player who could both space the floor and close out on shooters. At 6’5” with a 6’8” wingspan, he has the physical tools to succeed, and has honed in on the skills and confidence to make major contributions next season.
The Last Word
Christie’s comments and belief in this team is admirable, and it’s encouraging to know he’ll get a better opportunity under Redick next year. While hanging onto a Play-in-bound team may not be the best idea, there’s always a chance this group exceeds expectations. The Lakers’ belief in continuity could be a blessing in disguise or a disaster waiting to happen. Fans will only know the answer once this team hits the hardwood and the results start pouring in.
