I know the thread has focused on certain possible causes, and some have suggested that each of the suggested causes should be handled easily if the crew were adequately trained and professional. If there were additional factors involved (2 or 3 failures) then the chance of successful recover greatly diminishes ('western crew' or not!!). Take for example another Captain's experience in a Max 8 around the time of the Lion Air tragedy shown below. Yes, the problem below on it's own should never jeapordise a flight, but if it was happening at the same time as other malfunctions (eg. MCAS etc.), then the situation becomes much more dangerous.
After 1000 feet I noticed a decrease in aircraft performance. I picked up that the autothrottles were not moving to commanded position even though they were engaged. I'm sure they were set properly for takeoff but not sure when the discrepancy took place. My scan wasn't as well developed since I've only flown the MAX once before. I manually positioned the thrust levers ASAP. This resolved the threat, we were able to increase speed to clean up and continue the climb to 3000 feet.
Shortly afterwards I heard about the (other carrier) accident and am wondering if any other crews have experienced similar incidents with the autothrottle system on the MAX? Or I may have made a possible flying mistake which is more likely. The FO (First Officer) was still on his first month and was not able to identify whether it was the aircraft or me that was in error.