Max Christie’s Cold Start Forces Mavs To Reconsider His Starting Role

Dallas Mavericks star Max Christie's slow start to the 2026-27 season is causing a rift in the team's plans for the starting lineup. Ailing with a career-low 33.3% shooting and only 7.1 points per game, Christie's absence in the starting five is critical given Kyrie Irving's injury. Zaccharie Risacher, a defensive powerhouse, is now vying for the starting role with his elite defense and unstoppable energy.

Christie's recent performance, with no points and a turnover in his last game, highlights how detrimental he is when he steps onto the court. The Mavericks' loss after Christie's injury was their third of the season, largely due to their inability to spread the floor for Cooper Flagg. The team's performance with Christie in the game is 7.9 points per 100 possessions lower than when he is not.

His net rating of -15.1 is a clear indication that his current role isn't working. Zaccharie Risacher's impact is far more positive, boosting the Mavs' scoring by 3.7 points per 100 possessions when he starts. Despite hopes of a breakout season by Dusty May, Christie's struggles are discouraging. If he doesn't find his rhythm soon, Dallas may need to reconsider his starting position.

Zaccharie Risacher is currently seeing more playing time, averaging 27.9 minutes per game, and is crucial in closing games. The debate between these two players has intensified, with the numbers now making a forceful case for Risacher's role in the starting lineup. Until Christie proves he can shoot properly, the starting job should go to the player who aids the team's success, not hinders it.