I fly a 172, sometimes from mixed light/heavy traffic airports. Two thoughts:
1. Controllers can make mistakes, if something doesn't sound right -- ask. I nearly wasted a lot of time in my 172 following a SID from Glasgow designed for jets because I didn't query the clearance when it was given differently to the one I expected. If Max is remembering the RT accurately, the controller surely made a mistake lining him up after giving the other a/c a landing clearance (would Max have to be already lined up before the controller could issue a 'land-after-the-departing' clearance?).
2. Situational awareness helps to avoid this situation -- either from the r/t (light a/c in the circuit calling downwind or heavies checking in with the tower at 5 miles or so) or visually checking final before lining up.
I'd say both the above may have combined to create the situation Max found himself in. But, it's easy to be wise sitting at a desk, isn't it.
Regards