Sandro Mamukelashvili excited to be a Laker after growing up a Kobe Bryant fan

LOS ANGELES, Oct. 6 — Sandro Mamukelashvili signed a two‑year contract with the Los Angeles Lakers on Tuesday, saying he fulfilled a childhood dream of playing for the franchise that idolized Kobe Bryant. The 25‑year‑old Georgian forward, who averaged 9.1 points, 5.2 rebounds and 39.0% from three‑point range with the Utah Jazz last season, will serve as a backup to Walker Kessler and a potential 3‑point specialist off the bench.

Mamukelashvili grew up in Tbilisi watching Bryant’s highlights on a small television, and he credits the late star’s work ethic for shaping his own approach to training. “Every time I saw Kobe, I imagined myself on that floor,” he told reporters at the Lakers’ practice facility. “Now I’m here, and I want to honor his legacy by giving the team everything I have.”

The Lakers’ front office expects Mamukelashvili to stretch defenses, a role underscored by his 3‑point shooting efficiency. In 73 games for Utah, he made 126 of 323 attempts, ranking 12th among forwards with at least 150 attempts. Coach Darvin Ham indicated the team will integrate him into set‑piece plays designed to free up shooters in the corner.

Contract and roster impact

* Contract: Two years, $5.4 million guaranteed. * Salary cap: Occupies 5.5% of the 2026‑27 cap. * Roster depth: Provides the Lakers with a left‑handed stretch option behind Kessler and a defensive presence on the weak side.

Timeline of recent moves

| Date | Transaction | Impact | |------|--------------|--------| | Oct. 2, 2026 | Lakers sign Mamukelashvili | Adds 39% 3‑pt shooter to bench | | Oct. 3, 2026 | Kessler signs extension | Secures front‑court anchor | | Oct. 5, 2026 | Training camp roster finalized | Sets depth chart for opening night |

Future outlook

The Lakers project Mamukelashvili to attempt at least 3.2 three‑point shots per game, a volume that could raise the team’s overall 3‑point percentage to 37.8% if he maintains his Utah efficiency. Management will evaluate his defensive rotations in the first month to determine whether he can earn occasional minutes guarding opposing forwards.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many three‑pointers did Sandro Mamukelashvili make last season?

He hit 126 three‑point shots on 323 attempts, a 39.0% conversion rate.

What role will Mamukelashvili play for the Lakers?

He is expected to serve as a backup forward and a floor‑spacer, providing spot‑up shooting and occasional defensive assignments.

When can fans expect to see Mamukelashvili on the court?

He is slated to debut in the Lakers’ season opener on Oct. 12 against the Denver Nuggets, likely in the second half as a situational shooter.