Max Christie’s Emergence as a Key Player for the Dallas Mavericks
Max Christie waited in the corner with 3:52 left to play. He’s been solid all season, and the guard was no different in the moment. He made a wide-open triple, pulling the Dallas Mavericks within six points and fueling a 25-4 run against the Oklahoma City Thunder at American Airlines Center on Monday night.
And although they fell 101-94 to the defending champions after the late comeback fizzled, Christie has been a bright spot during a difficult start to the season.
“All the coaches empower me to shoot when I’m open for sure and not pass up any 3s,” he said after the game. “I’m very confident in myself always to be able to shoot the ball and feel like I’m confident in the work that I put in.”
Christie’s Performance Against the Thunder
Christie had 14 points, going 50% from the field and 4 of 8 from behind the 3-point arc in 31 minutes of action while making his first start of the season. He spaced the floor when nothing else seemed to work. The Mavericks were down by as much as 22 after the third quarter.
The guard also helped limit Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, the reigning MVP, to eight points in the first half and two points in the fourth quarter with the help of P.J. Washington. The Thunder scored only 14 points over the last 12 minutes.
“That’s what got us back in the game,” Christie said. “We were holding them to one shot for the most part. They were taking some tough shots. We were able to rebound and run for us to knock down some 3s.”
Consistency and Confidence
Consistent performances such as Monday’s have allowed Jason Kidd to give him the “green light,” Christie said, which helps him play with more ease, even after missing his first three attempts from beyond the arc. Christie helped the team’s perimeter game as the Mavericks converted six more triples than the Thunder.
“We need to shoot more 3s, and I want to be the spark for that,” Christie said. “So, for me, just not passing up any open ones, knowing that if I do that it hurts the team.”
Season Statistics and Progress
Through four games, Christie is averaging 12.3 points, shooting 55.2% from the field and 56.5% from behind the arc.
Before Monday, Christie’s best performance of the season came in the Mavericks’ lone win against the Toronto Raptors on Sunday night, recording 17 points, two rebounds, and two assists.
“He’s playing great,” Kidd said. “He’s shooting the 3 well. He’s competing on the defensive end, and I thought he had some great looks early and knocked some down for us late. He been playing well for us all season.”
Overcoming Injuries and Adversity
His surge is coming at a time when the Mavericks need him most after facing a slew of injuries. They are without Daniel Gafford and Dereck Lively II, who are dealing with a right ankle sprain and right knee contusion, respectively.
This is in addition to Kyrie Irving and Dante Exum, who are out indefinitely.
And with so many absences, Christie knows the kind of player he has to be. He knows what to expect and what to do.
“Whether it’s shoot 3s, whether it’s guard the best player, bring energy every night, that’s kind of what it is for me,” Christie said. “It’s more of a selfless approach, knowing that my role can change on a daily basis.”
Conclusion
Max Christie’s emergence as a key player for the Dallas Mavericks has been a significant factor in their ability to stay competitive despite the numerous injuries they have faced. His consistent performances, confidence, and selfless approach to the game have made him a valuable asset to the team.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is Max Christie’s current role on the Dallas Mavericks?
A: Max Christie is a guard for the Dallas Mavericks and has been playing a significant role in their games, including making his first start of the season.
Q: How has Christie performed this season?
A: Through four games, Christie is averaging 12.3 points, shooting 55.2% from the field and 56.5% from behind the arc.
Q: What has contributed to Christie’s success this season?
A: Christie’s success can be attributed to his consistent performances, confidence, and selfless approach to the game, as well as the trust and empowerment he has received from his coaches.
Q: How have the Mavericks been affected by injuries this season?
A: The Mavericks have been significantly affected by injuries, with players such as Daniel Gafford, Dereck Lively II, Kyrie Irving, and Dante Exum out due to various injuries.
