Sandro Mamukelashvili has stood out in the Lakers’ preseason, showing he can score, rebound, and make smart passes. Guard Austin Reaves has spoken highly of his basketball IQ and decision making, and Mamukelashvili says he looks up to Reaves, even though they are the same age. The two have built a quick chemistry because they both understand where to be on the court. In the early games, he is averaging 13 points, 3.3 rebounds, and 3.3 assists, shooting 57 percent from the field and 59 percent from three. He can grab a rebound and push the transition, and he is effective as a catch‑and‑shoot player, but he can also put the ball on the floor and create a shot or find a teammate. Adding a player with his high basketball IQ makes the Lakers’ offense more dangerous. Off the court, Mamukelashvili has a close friendship with hip‑hop icon Flavor Flav, who was in the crowd for the team’s game in Las Vegas.
