This season was a triumphant one for Austin Reaves, who went from a talent-laden undrafted rookie last year to an established difference-maker this year. He is set to get paid handsomely as a free agent this summer, and fans of the Los Angeles Lakers hope his next contract will be with the Purple and Gold.
They’re also hoping that Max Christie, a second-round draft pick in 2022 out of Michigan State University, will make a similar jump next season.
Christie got spot duty this year, and when he got onto the court, he showed an ability and willingness to play effective positional defense, as well as a surprisingly reliable outside shot — he hit 41.9 percent from 3-point range in the regular season.
A big key for him will be putting in lots of work this offseason, and he says he plans on participating in summer league play.
“I’m certainly planning to play in the Summer League, that’s for sure,” Christie said. “I want to make sure I keep getting my feet wet, make sure I’m getting as much playing experience as I can.”
The Lakers could certainly use a 3-and-D wing or guard who can finish games and defend players at both guard positions. If Christie turns out to be that man, it would represent another diamond in the rough for the organization.
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Story originally appeared on LeBron Wire