LAS VEGAS — Newly signed big man Sandro Mamukelashvili said the Los Angeles Lakers’ history and the chance to join a “high-level organization” drove his decision to accept a four-year, $52 million contract in free agency.
The former Toronto Raptors forward/center attended the Lakers’ Summer League game over the weekend and spoke with Khobi Price of the California Post about his move to Los Angeles.
‘All of the legends play for the Lakers’
“Just the name itself — all of the legends play for the Lakers,” Mamukelashvili said. “The organization is a very high-level organization. They’re starting a new page and it’s just unbelievable to be part of it.”
The 25-year-old, who grew up idolizing Kobe Bryant, added that wearing purple and gold once felt possible only in a video game. “I could only imagine this really in 2K, that I would be playing for this team,” he said. “I’m so excited, so happy. The coaching staff is amazing and I can’t wait to just put the jersey on, go out there and just play my heart out every night. You gotta have a chip on your shoulder when you play for the Lakers.”
Role alongside Walker Kessler
Los Angeles envisions Mamukelashvili primarily as the backup to starting center Walker Kessler, though the coaching staff also sees potential in two-big lineups that would place both players on the floor simultaneously. Head coach JJ Redick is expected to experiment with combinations that use Mamukelashvili’s ability to operate on the perimeter.
Lakers enter new era
With LeBron James projected to depart and several key contributors from last season already gone, the Lakers are reshaping the roster around Luka Dončić and Austin Reaves. Team officials believe Mamukelashvili’s versatility will make him a fixture in the rotation, whether he starts or comes off the bench.
The 6-foot-10 forward/center averaged 8.7 points and 4.1 rebounds in 18.2 minutes per game for Toronto last season.
Source: LakersNation.com
