Max Christie thriving with Mavericks amid Luka Doncic trade controversy

While Los Angeles Lakers fans have rejoiced over the blockbuster acquisition of five-time All-Star Luka Doncic, the mood in Dallas has been far less celebratory. The departure of their franchise cornerstone sparked backlash, and an untimely injury to Anthony Davis in his Mavericks debut — along with setbacks for other key players — has only intensified the frustration.

Yet amid the turbulence, an unexpected bright spot has emerged: Max Christie. The young guard, once a promising prospect in Los Angeles, has taken full advantage of his new opportunity in Dallas. Though his season averages of 8.5 points, 2.7 rebounds and 1.4 assists on 36.8% shooting from deep were solid for a third-year, second-round pick, Christie has flourished with increased playing time. 

Since arriving in Dallas, his minutes have jumped from 25.1 to 34.5 per game, and he has quickly established himself as a reliable contributor. Over his first six games with the Mavericks, he has averaged 17.3 points, 5.2 rebounds, 3.5 assists, and 1.2 steals while shooting an impressive 45.5% from beyond the arc. Dallas has gone 4-2 in that span, with Christie's impact proving crucial.

The trade that sent Doncic to Los Angeles was met with widespread skepticism, with many questioning Dallas’ decision to part with its generational superstar. Mavericks general manager Nico Harrison defended the move, emphasizing a belief that "defense wins championships" and pointing to the defensive upside of Davis. But while the focus has been on the exchange of star power, Christie is quietly making his case as a key piece of Dallas’ future.

The 6-foot-5 wing flashed two-way potential during his time with the Lakers, but in Dallas, he is proving he can contribute at a high level. At just 22-years-old, he could play a significant role in a Mavericks team navigating life after Doncic, particularly given the advancing ages of Davis and Kyrie Irving.

His combination of size and athleticism makes him a versatile defender, a crucial asset for a Mavericks team that currently ranks 14th in defensive rating (113.5). With Davis sidelined, Christie's ability to guard multiple positions has become even more valuable.

While maintaining a 45.5% three-point shooting rate over the long term may be unrealistic, his shooting ability is no fluke. He has shown flashes of outside proficiency at both the NBA and G League levels, and if he continues developing as a two-way threat, his role in Dallas could grow even further. 

In time, the Mavericks may look back at this trade and see Christie as a key piece in their next chapter — not just a throw-in.