The NBA brothers making their mark on opposing teams in Los Angeles

Max and Cam Christie are emerging as one of basketball’s most intriguing sibling duos, with careers that mirror each other in striking ways. 

Now in his third NBA season, Max is carving out a key role with the Los Angeles Lakers, while Cam, a rookie, is finding his footing in the G League with the Clippers. 

Both brothers share the same position, boast similar physical attributes and were second-round draft picks, making their parallel journeys all the more compelling.

Max Christie

Max’s rise in Los Angeles hasn’t been without its challenges. The 21-year-old began the 2024-25 season with modest averages of 3.6 points in October and 5.6 in November, struggling to secure consistent minutes. Yet, his resilience has paid off. 

Max has become a reliable two-way contributor since earning a spot in the Lakers’ starting lineup. Over 14 starts, he has averaged 11.3 points, three rebounds and 1.2 steals while shooting an impressive 47.6 percent from the field and 40.7 percent from deep on 4.2 attempts per game. 

His standout moment came on Jan. 2, when he erupted for a career-high 28 points and drained five three-pointers against the Portland Trail Blazers, solidifying his place in the rotation.

The Lakers’ belief in Max was evident this past offseason when the franchise signed him to a four-year, $32 million contract. Initially, the move raised eyebrows as his early-season performances failed to meet expectations. 

However, Max’s ability to adapt and thrive has validated the Lakers’ investment. He has become the defensive anchor they envisioned, crucial in their pursuit of playoff success.

Cam Christie

Cam Christie’s journey, though just beginning, already echoes his brother’s path. Drafted 46th overall by the Clippers after a standout freshman season at the University of Minnesota, Cam has spent most of his rookie year developing in the G League. 

Upon reaching the NBA, Max was excited about his younger sibling joining the cross-town rivals.

“I mean two brothers in the same city is obviously a dream come true and it doesn't matter what team he really went to," Max Christie told ClutchPoints.

"You're always excited. But the fact that I'm a Laker and he's a Clipper, we're both in the same city is gonna make our jobs a lot easier for each other so it's nice.”

Despite limited NBA exposure, Cam has quickly established himself as a rising star in the Clippers’ developmental system. He averaged 13.5 points, 3.8 rebounds, and 1.9 assists through the G League Tip-Off Tournament, showing flashes of his potential.

Cam’s growth has accelerated since the G League regular season started. Over his first five games, the 19-year-old guard has averaged 25.4 points, 5.2 rebounds, 2.4 assists and 1.6 steals while making 3.8 three-pointers per game. 

These numbers place him among the league’s top scorers, showcasing his scoring versatility and ability to lead an offense. Some might argue that Cam’s rookie progress already surpasses Max’s during his time in the G League, underscoring his potential to thrive at the next level.

Building a legacy

What makes the Christies’ story even more compelling is their unique bond. Despite playing for rival organizations, the brothers remain each other’s biggest supporters.

Now based in Los Angeles, the Christie brothers are laying the groundwork for a shared legacy. Max is focused on cementing his role with the Lakers, while Cam works toward his NBA debut. 

Whether donning purple and gold or Clippers blue, they are united by their drive to elevate their games. Together, the Christies are poised to make a lasting mark on professional basketball.