3 winners (and 1 loser) from Lakers preseason opener vs Warriors

SAN FRANCISCO, CALIFORNIA - OCTOBER 07: Anthony Davis #3 of the Los Angeles Lakers stands for the national anthem before their game against the Golden State Warriors at Chase Center on October 07, 2023 in San Francisco, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Ezra Shaw/Getty Images)
SAN FRANCISCO, CALIFORNIA - OCTOBER 07: Anthony Davis #3 of the Los Angeles Lakers stands for the national anthem before their game against the Golden State Warriors at Chase Center on October 07, 2023 in San Francisco, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Ezra Shaw/Getty Images)
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Max Christie Lakers
Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports – Max Christie Lakers

Lakers winner: Max Christie

If Anthony Davis was the best player on the floor during Saturday’s preseason game then Max Christie might have been the second best. Granted, Christie is not more talented than several of the players who played on Saturday night but he had one of the most impressive nights.

The second-year guard looked extremely polished on the offensive end in the Lakers’ preseason loss. Christie took full advantage of Austin Reaves not suiting up in this game, scoring 15 points on 6-10 shooting while going 2-4 from three.

Christie is not going to be someone who plays 25 minutes a night for the Lakers in the regular season but he is already proving that he can still be a difference-maker. As it stands right now he is the backup shooting guard on the roster and he definitely should be able to give LA 15 solid minutes off the bench.

Many Lakers fans were expecting a breakout season for Christie this year and this game is a great start. The hype for the former second-round pick is already growing and head coach Darvin Ham is not doing anything to slow it down.

Out of all the players on the roster, fans should watch Christie the closest in the preseason as it will be a good indication of what he can do for the team in the regular season.