The Lakers have secured Max Christie’s services for another four years by signing him to a $32-million contract. Christie, 21, averaged 4.2 points last season while moving in and out of the Lakers’ rotation. Had he been a restricted free agent, the team would have lost him. However, the Lakers reached a deal to keep him just before the opening bell on Sunday.
As he enters his third season after being selected 35th in the 2022 NBA draft, the Lakers are hoping Christie can make significant progress to become a player who can impact the game on both ends of the court. Standing at 6-foot-6, Christie had a 20-game stretch last season where he saw consistent rotation minutes. However, his playing time decreased significantly once the team signed guard Spencer Dinwiddie in free agency and Gabe Vincent returned from injury. Christie did not play for the Lakers in the postseason.
Christie’s role last season was a concern for the Lakers, and his name was frequently mentioned during the search for a new coach and after the hiring of JJ Redick. The team currently has a full roster of 15 players, including LeBron James, who is expected to re-sign after declining his option for the final year of his contract. Despite having a full roster,
