Decisions are quickly being made by key members of the Los Angeles Lakers as far as the player option on their contracts for the 2024-25 season.
Starting point guard D’Angelo Russell and backup center Jaxson Hayes decided to exercise their player options in order to remain with the team. Several weeks ago, big man Christian Wood also picked up his player option for next year.
Of course, LeBron James opted out on Saturday, making him a free agent.
Another decision on a key rotation player will come relatively soon. The Lakers tendered a qualifying offer to guard Max Christie, which means he will be a restricted free agent.
Sources: The Lakers tendered a qualifying offer to guard Max Christie, which makes him a restricted free agent, @hoopshype has learned. The 21-year-old appeared in 67 games for the Lakers last season. He’s expected to be one of the more sought after young wings in free agency. pic.twitter.com/mxf9k79vRY
— Michael Scotto (@MikeAScotto) June 29, 2024
Christie continued to show promise this year in his second season out of Michigan State University. However, then-head coach Darvin Ham didn’t play him a lot, and it was reportedly a reason Ham was ultimately fired.
Plenty of Lakers fans have been calling for Christie to play a larger role. According to insider Anthony Irwin, those fans may get their wish.
The Lakers really want to see more of Max this season. I’m told his lack of a role last season was one of the absolute biggest sources of frustration between the organization and Darvin Ham. https://t.co/Bz8aSFcgQ9
— Anthony F. Irwin (@AnthonyIrwinLA) June 29, 2024
The 21-year-old averaged 4.2 points, 2.1 rebounds, 0.9 assists, 0.3 steals and 0.3 blocked shots in 14.1 minutes a game while shooting 42.7% from the field and 35.6% from 3-point range this season.