It looks like LeBron James is a mentor to young guard Max Christie not only on the court but also off it. Los Angeles Lakers superstar James and second-year guard Christie were seen playing blackjack, with the former giving Christie advice on how to win.
It appears that Christie is not a good blackjack player and looked completely lost during the game. In the video, four-time NBA champion James teaches his teammates how to play blackjack and is constantly giving advice on how to play and win.
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Max Christie feels more ‘comfortable’ in second year with Lakers
Max Christie spent his rookie season split between the Lakers and their G League affiliate. He averaged 12.5 minutes per game in 41 games and had a limited role in the rotation.
However, given the progress he made during his rookie season and offseason preparation, the 17-time NBA champion is willing to provide him with more playing time.
Lakers head coach Davin Hamm recently talked about what Max Christie should do to get more playing time.
“He’s already very competitive. He’s got to focus on defense, attack the right way and really be aggressive. He’s one of our most athletic players. He’s done a really good job with his body this summer, ” Ham told the media a few weeks ago, via Lakers Nation.
“He’s put on some muscle. He can shoot the ball. Just simple things, that’s what he can do. Stay competitive, defend like there’s no tomorrow and keep the offense simple but aggressive.”
For his part, Christie, who joined the team as a draft pick (second round) last summer, knows his role this season: come off the bench and be Austin Reeves’ backup. He feels “comfortable” because he can make plays on both sides of the ball.
“I mean, yeah, I would say that. In these preseason games, especially when we have a lot of guys back, like the last game we had LeBron and AR, I’m able to play a little bit Own your role and play that role. When we get into the regular season, we’re going to play that role.
“Nights like tonight, I’m able to play a little bit more free and do my thing, but I’m used to switching roles and stuff like that,” Max Christie told reporters after Sunday’s preseason game against Milwaukee . Bucks, via Lakers Nation. “
I’ve added:
“Certainly, a lot more comfortable. I think a year in this league is a lot of experience, especially for me. I’ve been very observant, especially last year, and now I’m learning how to use that experience going into this year and just be more comfortable. .
“I know a little more about the ins and outs of things, so it’s been fun. I feel more comfortable out there, so I’m definitely having a lot of fun with this team,” Max Christie added.
Christie and the Lakers will open the 2023-24 season on the road against the defending champion Denver Nuggets on Tuesday, October 24.