3. Max Christie
With apologies to Max Christie, before the season started, I stated Cole Swider was viewed as the rookie to watch this season based on Summer League. However, that could not have been further from the truth and Christie has been one of the bright spots this season coming off the bench in a limited role.
Christie has shown impressive quickness and athleticism that seems like it could help him to develop into a solid defender at his position. Right now, he gets bullied by heavier forwards, but his length and light feet show potential to be able to defend multiple positions out on the perimeter.
Once his frame fills out, he could develop into a solid 3 and D wing that the Lakers are desperate for. He was viewed as a subpar 3-point shooter heading into this season, primarily due to his Summer League performance, and he shut down that criticism so far, shooting almost 55 percent on six of 11 attempts.
Based on the small sample size of 10 games he has played in; it seems like Christie could grow into a decent role player and even a solid starter if he continues improving. He has not been spectacular by any means, but he has not had much of a chance to play.
When he has gotten on the court, he has been better than advertised and is just 19 years old. It could be too soon to make this call, but it looks like the Lakers hit on yet another pick later in the draft.