Sqgame555 Dallas Mavericks guard Max Christie is excited to see veteran backcourt member D’Angelo Russell. Sqgame555

Christie played alongside Russell on the Lakers in 2023-24, and they were considered a pair of senior and junior players who had a close bond. Their fates eventually led to their paths crossing again at American Airlines Center, which is why the 22-year-old shooting guard was especially pleased.

“That’s the person I’m closest to, and my closest teammate,” he told the Dallas Morning News.

“We spent two years together in LA, and I have a lot of respect for him.” 

“Dallas is in good shape right now.” 

“We have a good coaching staff and are looking forward to becoming a big player on the Western side.” 

The 2022 second-round draft class is a young foundation with Cooper Flagg and Derek Lively II , with veterans like Russell , Anthony Davis , Kyrie Irving and Klay Thompson . Sqgame555