4 Lakers Who Need More Playing Time for a Championship Run

4. Max Christie

The second-round pick from the 2022 NBA Draft, Max Christie has emerged as an intriguing wing option for the Lakers this season. The former Michigan State product offers a fascinating skill set with his ability to play both sides of the ball.

Christie not only played in 43 games this season, but he also started in seven. He is averaging 17.2 minutes per game but he has a case for more playing time.

The 21-year-old shooting guard is one of the better shooters on the team. A career 38.2% three-point shooter, Christie can get shots up with volume and accuracy. He is one of the few players on the team who can do that without also being a defensive liability.

In fact, the Lakers defense is 4.2 points per 100 possessions better with Christie on the floor, according to Basketball Reference data. He does a decent job getting through screens and guarding smaller players.

If Gabe Vincent doesn't return from his injury, Christie might be the best guard defender on the Lakers. Considering that the Lakers might face the likes of Devin Booker, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, and Jamal Murray in the playoffs, Christie might have a role trying to slow them down. If he also hits enough shots on the other end, he should play as many minutes as Darvin Ham can find for him.

The Los Angeles Lakers currently aren't favored to make the playoffs in the Western Conference. If you want to take advantage of the +108 odds, head over to FanDuel Sportsbook and claim your $150 in bonus bets when you make a winning wager of $5.

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