Lakers Secure First Big Signing of 2024 Free Agency
All eyes are on the Los Angeles Lakers heading into free agency as the team positions itself for some major moves. While Los Angeles is a huge threat for outside acquisitions, the front office also has some in-house players to attend to as negotiations open.
Now it turns out the Lakers have gotten one big re-signing out of the way before legal tampering begins.
ESPN Sources: Restricted free agent G Max Christie intends to sign a four-year, $32 million deal to stay with the Los Angeles Lakers. Deal includes player option. Christie — 35th pick in the 2022 draft — has shown promise as a future LA rotation player. pic.twitter.com/75Y86oszJa
— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) June 30, 2024
ESPN's Adrian Wojnarowski reports LA and guard Max Christie have agreed to terms on a four-year extension worth $32 million. Christie was set to test the open market as a restricted free agent this summer, but this now removes that possibility entirely.
Los Angeles shows confidence in Christie continuing to develop after the franchise drafted him No. 35 overall in the 2022 draft. The Michigan State product improved upon his rookie year numbers this past season, which notably led to an uptick in playing time (14.1 minutes per game) as the young guard vies for a legitimate spot in the rotation.
With new head coach JJ Redick taking over, there's a chance that positively impacts Christie's growth as a shooter. He actually took a step back in both 3-point and free throw percentage during the 2023-24 campaign, which will limit his NBA upside if he can't find his stroke.
But with a former sharpshooter in Redick at the helm, Christie should be in great hands. The fact the Lakers were also happy to commit this money to him long-term shows no concerns about him unearthing untapped potential as a player.
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