DALLAS — The blockbuster trade involving Anthony Davis and Luka Doncic dominated headlines before the NBA trade deadline. While the focus was primarily on Doncic and Davis, other players were also involved in the Mavericks-Lakers deal, including Max Christie. Now with the Dallas Mavericks, Christie shared his thoughts on being part of such a historic transaction.
“I was obviously pretty shocked,” Christie admitted during his introductory press conference on Friday. “A trade of that magnitude is going to be shocking to anybody, especially for the people who are involved in it. But for me, I’m big on perspective, being able to be a part of a trade of that magnitude is definitely kind of flattering for me. I was definitely shocked, but at the end of the day, after I started to process my emotions and kind of realized what was going on, trying to find a positive out of everything, I was able to find a positive in that.
“I’m super excited to be here. I’m super excited to be here with this team, trying to win a lot of games… Yeah, it was shocking, but I’ve played two games already (with the Mavericks). I feel a lot more comfortable than I did when I first got traded. So looking forward to continue to build on that.”
Max Christie’s Early Impact with the Mavericks
The Mavericks brought in three new players before the trade deadline: Anthony Davis, Max Christie, and Caleb Martin. Although Martin is currently dealing with an injury, he is expected to return within the next couple of weeks. Meanwhile, Davis has yet to debut for Dallas, but barring any setbacks, he plans to make his first appearance on Saturday against the Houston Rockets. Christie, on the other hand, has already made an impression, playing in two games for his new team.
The 21-year-old guard has been off to a strong start, scoring 15 points in each of his first two games with the Mavericks.
Christie Praises the Mavericks’ Team Culture
When asked about his early experiences in Dallas, Christie spoke highly of the team’s culture and chemistry.
“Playing in my first few games so far with the Mavs, the culture… everybody is super together,” Christie said. “Everybody is communicating with each other really well… I’ve noticed that coming in as the new guy. Everybody is… trying to make me feel comfortable. So I appreciate that a lot about the organization, about the team.
“Feels like a big family for sure. I think that’s important for any organization just trying to win at a high level, being able to have everybody on the same page.”
The Mavericks have their sights set on another deep playoff run in the 2024-25 season. While Mavs GM Nico Harrison knew that trading Luka Doncic would spark controversy among fans, he made a bold move that he believes will help Dallas maintain long-term success.
Christie is set to play his third game for the Mavericks—and his first home game in Dallas—on Saturday afternoon. Meanwhile, Davis will be preparing for his Mavericks debut.
The Mavs vs. Rockets game is scheduled for 3 PM EST at the American Airlines Center in what promises to be a highly competitive showdown.
