"Ham had him getting DNPs lmao" - Fans abuzz as Lakers lockdown specialist Max Christie drops career-high under JJ Redick

The LA Lakers are surging under JJ Redick as LA finished December with a 5-2 record after a 1-3 start. The Lakers opened 2025 with a matchup versus the Portland Trail Blazers on Thursday.

LA was fueled by a career night from third-year guard Max Christie, who is having an increased role with the Lakers under JJ Redick after being underutilized in 2023-24. Fans on social media reacted to Christie's heroic performance following LA's 114-106 win over the Trail Blazers.

"Max Christie is BALLING OUT as a starter," a Lakers fan page posted.

"(Darvin Ham) had him getting DNPs," another fan pointed out, throwing shade at LA's former coach.

"Yeah he's on fire tonight," a third fan agreed.

Fans continued to throw shade at Darvin Ham for leaving Christie on the bench last year.

"Ham didn't play him at al bro," a fan commented.

"Ham didn't use him at all last year," another fan agreed.

"Benched by (Darvin Ham) for two years btw," a third fan added.

Before Thursday's matchup, Christie scored 16 or more points in three of his last four games. Over his last five games, Max Christie is averaging 16.4 points, shooting 51% from the field during that stretch.

Max Christie, LeBron James lead Lakers to win over Portland

In Anthony Davis' absence, LeBron James and Max Christie stepped up to lead the Lakers to a win over Portland at home as James and Christie combined for 66 of LA's 114 points.

Christie finished as the game's second-leading scorer, notching a career-high 28 points on 9-of-16 shooting, connecting on five of his nine 3-point attempts. He also grabbed three rebounds, two assists and plucked two steals.

LeBron James scored a game-high 38 points on 15-of-25 shooting, burying 7-of-10 3-pointers, including a clutch 27-footer in the game's final minute to put LA ahead 110-102. James also grabbed three rebounds and assisted on eight baskets.

Austin Reaves rounded out a heroic performance in front of a friendly crowd with a near-triple-double performance. Reaves finished with 15 points, 11 assists and eight rebounds.