Max Christie Reflects on Trade as Mavericks Face Lakers

SAN FRANCISCO – Max Christie, a third-year guard for the Dallas Mavericks, is gearing up for a highly anticipated matchup against the Los Angeles Lakers on Tuesday night, marking his first game back in the city where he began his NBA journey. The game holds added significance as it follows his recent trade from the Lakers, a deal that sent nine-time All-Star Anthony Davis to Dallas in exchange for five-time All-Star Luka Dončić.

Before the trade was officially announced, Christie received a phone call from Lakers General Manager Rob Pelinka while on a team bus after a game against the New York Knicks on February 2. His life changed in an instant. “I had my suspicions when I got that call,” Christie recalled. “The emotions at that moment obviously were pretty overwhelming. I was in denial a little bit at first. I can’t believe this is happening.”

Despite the whirlwind of emotions surrounding the trade, the 22-year-old shooting guard is focused on the upcoming game. “I’m not even looking at this game as a ‘revenge game,’” Christie said. “I’m actually looking forward to it from a sense that I get to see old teammates, old colleagues, old coaches. I want to win, obviously.”

Since joining the Mavericks, Christie has excelled on the court, averaging 15.3 points, 4.9 rebounds, and 3.1 assists in eight games. He has scored at least 15 points in seven of those matches, demonstrating his adaptability in a new system. “Every new team has a different change of scenery,” he explained. “I’m just trying to fit into this system.”

Mavericks head coach Jason Kidd praised Christie’s mature approach to the game and his ability to perform under pressure. “You look at his age and he’s a lot more mature for a 22-year-old,” Kidd said. “For him to be able to do the things that he’s doing at a high level, both offensively and defensively, you gotta give him a lot of credit.”

Meanwhile, although Davis remains sidelined due to injury, Christie believes the Mavericks have what it takes to be a competitive force in the league. “All our bigs are going to create an unbelievable defense,” he noted, anticipating an eventual return to full strength.

As Christie prepares to step on the court at Crypto.com Arena, he acknowledges the emotional weight of returning to where he made his mark. “I didn’t expect to feel the feeling that I felt,” he shared, reminiscing about the memories tied to the arena. “It feels good to be here.”

Ahead of the game, both teams are bracing for the competitive atmosphere. The Lakers hold a significant stake in the matchup as they look to reestablish themselves as title contenders. “It’s a good test for us as a matchup, as a team as well,” Christie added, expressing both excitement and determination.

The Mavericks and Lakers are set to tip-off at 10 p.m. EST. This game, significant on several fronts, promises to be a showcase of resilience, adaptation, and competitive spirit between former teammates turned rivals.