Why Max Christie and Dorian Finney-Smith Pairing Bodes Well for Lakers’ Defense

The Los Angeles Lakers may have struck defensive gold with the pairing of Max Christie and Dorian Finney-Smith. As the team aims to solidify its defense, these two players are emerging as a formidable duo capable of locking down the league’s best scorers. Since Christie’s elevation to the starting lineup and Finney-Smith’s arrival from the Brooklyn Nets, their combined defensive prowess has drawn significant attention.

Max Christie’s Defensive Growth

Max Christie has consistently been tasked with some of the toughest defensive assignments in the NBA. Over the past month, he has guarded elite players like Ja Morant, Trae Young, Cade Cunningham, and Stephen Curry. Despite these challenges, Christie has proven himself as one of the Lakers’ most reliable defenders. His defensive energy and ability to take on primary scoring threats make him a vital piece of the Lakers’ rotation.

Dorian Finney-Smith’s Defensive Impact

The Lakers’ acquisition of Dorian Finney-Smith has added another dimension to their defense. Known for his ability to guard top-tier offensive players, Finney-Smith brings a wealth of experience and intensity. In just his second game with the Lakers, he was closing out games alongside Christie, forming a defensive wall on the wing.

After a win against the Atlanta Hawks, Finney-Smith emphasized his role in complementing Christie’s efforts:

“Since I’ve been here, Max has been terrific on the defensive end bringing a lot of energy. So when I come in, I try to match his energy,” Finney-Smith stated.

This veteran perspective not only strengthens the Lakers’ defense but also provides mentorship to the young Christie.

Defensive Wings: The Key to Lakers’ Success

The Lakers’ success in recent years has hinged on strong wing defense. During their 2020 championship run, Kentavious Caldwell-Pope and Danny Green anchored the team’s defense. However, after trading both players, the Lakers struggled to replicate that intensity on the perimeter.

The Christie-Finney-Smith pairing could finally bring back that defensive edge. Early results from games against the Portland Trail Blazers and the Hawks are encouraging. The duo’s ability to close out games on the defensive end was crucial to securing victories.

Lakers head coach JJ Redick also highlighted the importance of defense in Christie’s breakout performance against the Blazers, where he scored a career-high 28 points:

“I didn’t think his first run was good in terms of his defensive disposition,” Redick said. “I thought his career night started with changing the disposition on defense.”

Small Sample Size, Big Potential

While the sample size is still small, the pairing of Christie and Finney-Smith shows immense potential. Both players have the ability to guard multiple positions, disrupt passing lanes, and grab crucial rebounds. Their chemistry was on full display in recent games, as Christie noted:

“I thought we did a good job kind of holding them, holding their points, trying to make sure they weren’t scoring too much at the end of the last two minutes. I thought me and Doe did a good job of that.”

The Lakers’ defensive strategy seems to be taking shape, with Christie and Finney-Smith at its core.

Looking Ahead

For the Lakers, the Christie-Finney-Smith pairing could be a game-changer. Both players bring unique skills that complement each other, creating a defensive foundation that could rival the team’s 2020 championship roster. With the Lakers looking to improve their playoff positioning, their ability to stop elite scorers will be crucial.

Fans and analysts alike are watching closely to see if this duo can maintain their intensity and continue to deliver results. If early performances are any indication, the Lakers might have found their answer to recapturing defensive dominance.

Conclusion

The combination of Max Christie’s energy and Dorian Finney-Smith’s experience provides the Lakers with a much-needed defensive boost. As the season progresses, this pairing has the potential to redefine the team’s identity on the defensive end. For Lakers fans dreaming of another championship, this duo could be the key to unlocking that goal.