By Johnny Askounis/ info@eurohoops.net
The Los Angeles Lakers have targeted free-agent forward-center Sandro Mamukelashvili, initiating contact immediately as the NBA negotiation window opens to secure his services.
Insider Dan Woike reported on Monday that the storied franchise moved quickly after the Georgian big chose to hit the open market, declining a player option worth nearly three million dollars with the Toronto Raptors. Following a highly successful campaign with the lone Canadian franchise of the league, Mamu expects to command an eight-figure annual salary on a multi-year deal.
Head coach JJ Redick reportedly covets his unique tactical versatility. At 2.06 meters tall, he operates effectively as a modern stretch-five capable of opening up the paint for driving guards. This skillset makes him a fascinating target, especially as Slovenian superstar Luka Doncic searches for an elite center to pair with ahead of next season.
Over 80 regular-season games last year, Mamukelashvili established career highs by registering 11.2 points, 4.9 rebounds, and 1.9 assists per night. He shot an efficient 52.3% from the floor and 38.9% from long range, production that earned him a tenth-place finish in the Sixth Man of the Year voting. Furthermore, he can bring valuable postseason experience to California, having logged seven playoff appearances during a tight series against the Cleveland Cavaliers, tallying 5.0 points per game under the guidance of Serbian play-caller Darko Rajakovic.
While Toronto remains determined to retain their top bench producer, rigid financial constraints have created a clear opening for the Lakers to swoop in with a contract offer to bolster their rotation.
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