I don’t know specifically about the MAX, but based on the thrust vector if a pilot in a stall put in more power before nosing down the plane would pitch up and

I don’t know specifically about the MAX, but based on the thrust vector if a pilot in a stall put in more power before nosing down the plane would pitch up and you’d be put into an even deeper stall. The MCAS is there to nose down automatically for you if a stall is detected.