A Familiar Return to Crypto.com Arena
On a cold, February night in Dallas, Mavericks guard Max Christie found himself driving around Rockets forward Dillon Brooks, a testament to his growing skills and confidence on the court. This wasn’t the first time Max Christie had been in this exact situation, standing beneath the Lakers’ championship banners, basking in the soft, golden lighting that gives the arena its unique glow. It wasn’t the first time he marveled at the retired jerseys of Lakers legends, or the first time he felt the ball swish through the net just as Kobe Bryant, whose sneakers he now wears, had done countless times. However, this time, he was donning a different jersey, that of the Dallas Mavericks, marking a significant chapter in his young NBA career.
Nostalgia and Emotions Fueled by Memories
Christie’s return to Crypto.com Arena for the Mavericks’ shootaround before their game against the Lakers was a bittersweet moment. “I didn’t expect to be as, not emotional, but just to feel the feeling that I felt,” he admitted. “Just coming back here and a lot of memories in this place, a lot of memories in this city.” The arena held special significance for him, as it was where he began and built his blossoming NBA career, transforming from a second-round draft pick into one of the league’s top young guards. The memories of his time with the Lakers, the city, and the fans flooded back, making the visit both nostalgic and poignant.
The Trade and a Fresh Start
The Lakers’ surprising trade for Luka Doncic in mid-February sent Anthony Davis and Christie to the Mavericks, marking a new phase in both their careers. While Davis was sidelined by an injury in his first game as a Maverick, Christie was given a significant opportunity to shine. In just his first eight games with Dallas, he averaged 15.3 points, quickly becoming a key player for the team. “I just feel very invested for the rest of my life in his career,” Lakers coach JJ Redick said, reflecting on Christie’s growth. “He has a lot of freedom in Dallas that, frankly, he didn’t have here. At some point, he would have had it here, but I’m really happy to see him succeeding.”
Gratitude and Positive Vibes
Despite the trade, Christie harbored no ill feelings towards the Lakers organization. “They really took good care of me, and I appreciate them a ton and still to this day,” he said. “Again, there’s no bad blood between anybody in the Lakers. I have nothing but love for everybody.” Redick’s words of support and belief in Christie’s potential meant a lot to him. “JJ’s comments obviously mean a lot to me. He’s a coach that really believed in me. He gave me an opportunity and he allowed me to play through a little bit of adversity that I had early in the year. And he trusted me again to put me out on the floor, and that goes a long way for me and my belief in myself.” The entire coaching staff’s support had been instrumental in Christie’s development and confidence.
A Game for Closure
Tuesday’s game against the Lakers was more than just another matchup for Christie. It was a chance to find closure as he transitions to this new chapter in his career. After the trade, he returned to his Los Angeles apartment to gather some personal items, enjoyed a day at the beach, and had a meal with friends. Now, he’s settling into a Dallas apartment that is still unfurnished, part of a new team and organization he’s still getting to know. “It’s a lot to process, but I’ve learned I can handle it,” Christie said. “Just being able to compartmentalize everything that’s been going on, being able to take all the emotions and leave them off the court. At the end of the day, it is just basketball.”
Embracing the Future with Confidence
Christie’s resiliency and toughness have been on full display since joining the Mavericks. He’s learned a lot about himself in the past few games, discovering his ability to handle the pressures and expectations that come with being a key player. “And that’s what I’m pretty good at,” he concluded with a sense of pride and determination. As he stepped onto the court for the game against the Lakers, Christie was ready to face his former team with the same passion and skill that have defined his journey so far. The future is bright, and Christie is more than ready to make the most of it.
