BREAKING: Dallas Maverick Coach Jason Kidd Stuns NBA World with Shocking Decision to Make Max Christie the New Starter in Mavericks Backcourt Because..
🔵 Mavericks coach Jason Kidd names Max Christie a starting guard in Dallas backcourt
In a move that shook the NBA community, Dallas Mavericks head coach Jason Kidd promoted Max Christie to the starting backcourt, replacing a veteran wing—a decision grounded in Christie’s eye-catching two-way impact.
Since arriving via the February 2 trade (part of the deal sending Luka Doncic to the Lakers), the 22-year-old Christie has averaged approximately 17 points, 5 rebounds, and 3 assists per game while shooting around 50 percent from the field and over 44 percent from deep in nine games . More notably, he’s emerged as one of Dallas’ best wing defenders, bringing the perimeter defensive “stopper” energy the Mavs needed amid injuries.
Kidd’s decision comes during a turbulent stretch: injuries have sidelined Kyrie Irving (ACL), Anthony Davis, Daniel Gafford, Dereck Lively II, and others, forcing coaches to lean heavily on rookies and role players. With limited roster depth, those stepping up earn playing time. Christie’s strong box plus-minus numbers (game-high +24 against New Orleans) accentuated his consistent floor impact.
Before promotion, Christie often played a sixth-man role with starter-level minutes—Tuesday vs. Pelicans: 16 points in 32 minutes off the bench, prompting Kidd to admit Christie “needs to start or take on a bigger offensive role”. His playmaking shines too; Mavericks Reddit users note his composure: “He’ll use the attention… find the open man,” a boost amid Dallas’ offense struggles .
While Kidd underscores a team‑first “best‑shot” approach due to depleted personnel, Christie’s surge makes him a clear fit for the starting backcourt alongside Irving and P.J. Washington.
Bottom line: Kidd’s move rewards real production—56 minutes of backcourt minutes from a hot rookie, elite defense, and shooting efficiency—an emphatic vote of confidence as the Mavs navigate a rough patch.