High-End Upside Comparison: Arron Afflalo
Choosing a retired player instead of an active one might be a bit offputting, but Arron Afflalo would be a dream outcome from an ambitious upside comparison perspective. It's also a trajectory that the Los Angeles Lakers would be happy to help Christie progress along.
Afflalo played 11 seasons in the NBA, earning a reputation as one of the best 3-and-D players in the game at his peak.
Between 2010-11 and 2015-16, Afflalo averaged 14.7 points, 3.5 rebounds, 2.5 assists, and 1.4 three-point field goals made on .453/.381/.830 shooting. Beyond the numbers, he was a two-way player who added muscle to his frame and became the prototypical 3-and-D wing for his era.
In addition to being efficient from beyond the arc, Afflalo was shifty enough to get to his spots and hurt teams from midrange—much as Christie has showcased the potential to do.
Christie will need to add muscle to his frame in order to become an Afflalo type of player. It's certainly possible, however, as his wingspan and body type supports his ability to ultimately climb above 200 pounds and become more versatile on defense.
Everyone wants to be an All-Star, but if the Lakers can help Christie become a two-way player who starts a vast majority of the games he plays, it would be a massive victory.