Despite delivering the best 3-point shooting season of his professional career, Max Christie was not selected to participate in the NBA’s 3-Point Contest during the upcoming All-Star Weekend in Inglewood, California. The NBA announced the eight contestants on Sunday, and Christie was missing from the lineup showcasing the league’s top perimeter marksmen.
Confirmed Contestants and Notable Omissions
The players chosen for the competition include Tyrese Maxey, Kon Knueppel, Donovan Mitchell, Jamal Murray, Bobby Portis Jr., Norman Powell, Devin Booker, and Damian Lillard. Lillard could make history if he wins the event for a third time. However, Christie’s absence was conspicuous, especially given his strong statistics compared to several of these participants.
Christie’s Statistics Compared to Select Contestants
Christie’s performance this season has been notable. Though Lillard is currently sidelined recovering from Achilles surgery and Booker is shooting a career-low 30.7% from beyond the arc, Christie boasts a higher 3-point percentage than six of the confirmed participants. Last season, Christie made 115 three-pointers at a 36.6% clip, and this year he has already surpassed that total with 121 made shots, hitting 42.9% of his attempts—a career high. He shoots an average of 2.5 three-pointers per game this season, up from 1.5 per game last year. In the league rankings, Christie stands 15th in 3-point shooting percentage and 32nd in total three-pointers made.
Reaction from Teammates and Coaching Staff
The omission has sparked some surprise among those close to Christie. Teammate Naji Marshall expressed his disbelief on social media, posting, “No Max Christie?” on his Instagram story. Meanwhile, Dallas Mavericks head coach Jason Kidd advocated for Christie’s inclusion before a recent game against the San Antonio Spurs. Kidd said,
“Max Christie’s been playing extremely well for us,”
“We need to get him into the 3-point contest. He deserves to be in that.”
Christie’s Current Season Highlights and Team Representation
Christie is currently averaging a career-best 13.3 points and 3.4 rebounds per game. His recent performances include scoring 20 points in a loss to the Spurs and 17 points in the rematch on Sunday. Despite his exclusion from the 3-point contest, he will have some representation at All-Star Weekend, as rookie Cooper Flagg will participate in the Rising Stars Challenge on Friday.
Christie’s Perspective on the 3-Point Contest Opportunity
After setting a personal record by making eight three-pointers in a game at Madison Square Garden on January 19, Christie was asked about his chances of competing in the 3-point contest. He responded optimistically, saying,
“Something I definitely wouldn’t turn down. Something that would be a dream come true for me and if I get the nod, that would be amazing.”
However, with this year’s snub, Christie will have to wait at least another season for the opportunity to compete on this stage.
Looking Ahead: Implications and Expectations
Christie’s omission raises questions about selection criteria and the recognition of emerging talent in the NBA’s popular All-Star Weekend events. Given his impressive shooting efficiency and consistent improvement, many expect that he will be strongly considered for future 3-point contest invitations. For now, Christie continues to contribute significantly to the Mavericks while growing his reputation among league voters and fans alike.
Naji Marshall reacts to the omission of Max Christie from the 3-point contest: pic.twitter.com/PbTa4Ze6WE
— Mike Curtis (@MikeACurtis2) February 8, 2026
