Lakers Standout Young Forward Has Eyes Set on Rotation Spot in 2023

Should he make the cut this season?

When the Lakers drafted forward Max Christie from Michigan State University last year in the second round of the NBA draft, he was seen as more of a long-term project. He played 41 games with LA last season, averaging 3.1 points but he did shoot 41.9 percent three. You could see the potential he had in his defensive instincts but the team needed to see more from him as a whole.

That's why this summer was so important for Christie as many wanted to see how he grew he game and if he could be dominant in the summer league.

So far, Christie has looked great. His growth in his overall ability has been on display. He looks more aggressive when driving to the rim and is showing that he can hit his outside shots with regularity. The instincts that he showed on defense last year are still there and he will keep getting better with more experience. 

His goal this season is to make the Lakers rotation as a bench player and right now, he seems to be on that path. 

Max Christie reaffirms his goal for Summer League and beyond: “Just to be in that rotation and impact winning however I can. Whatever the (Lakers) organization needs me to do, I’m willing to do it.” pic.twitter.com/L2ISrubagl

— michael corvo (@michaelcorvo_) July 13, 2023

Christie has entered the "too good for summer league" part of his game and that's a great thing for LA. Even his coaches have noticed the jump that he has made.

"His habits are very unique," Lakers assistant/summer league coach JD DuBois said, per Khobi Price of the

Orange County Register

. "He's always there early, takes care of his body, he eats right [and] does the extra work."

Per Bleacher Report

Confidence seems to be the biggest aspect that has grown in Christie's game. He doesn't seem nervous or scared of the big stage any longer and that is what will make him successful. 

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