3 Lakers Summer League sleepers who could earn minutes this season

No. 1 Los Angeles Lakers Summer League sleeper: Max Christie

Entering the second year of his two-year rookie contract, it’s make-or-break time for Max Christie in Los Angeles. If his first two Summer League games are any indication, the Michigan State product is ready to make.

Christie was the No. 35 pick in the 2022 NBA Draft. He spent most of last season glued to the Lakers bench, but he managed a few brief flourishes to get the fanbase hooked. Christie appeared in 41 games averaging 12.5 minutes. He hit 26 of his 62 three-point attempts (41.9 percent) and looked comfortable enough on defense to keep the Lakers invested.

Through two games in Summer League, he’s averaging 21 points and comfortably operating as the Lakers’ primary offensive weapon alongside Hood-Schifino in the backcourt. On top of his buttery 3-point shot (4-of-5 in Wednesday’s loss to San Antonio), Christie is really popping as a driver. He’s beating closeouts, getting into the paint, and finishing with a nice variety of moves.

The Lakers could use a proper 3-and-D wing after Malik Beasley flamed out last season, primarily due to his deficiencies in the defensive category. Christie gets after it on defense and has tremendous physical tools for his position. Christie only turned 20 a few months ago; he was always going to need time. Now, with year two on the horizon and a second contract at stake, he very much feels like a candidate to break into the Lakers’ regular rotation.