Los Angeles Lakers sign Georgian forward Sandro Mamukelashvili

The Los Angeles Lakers are expected to add unrestricted free agent Sandro Mamukelashvili, a 27‑year‑old Georgian forward‑center, to strengthen their frontcourt for the 2026‑27 season. The move follows the Lakers’ recent acquisitions of Walker Kessler, Quentin Grimes and Collin Sexton after the departures of LeBron James, Marcus Smart, Luke Kennard and Jaxson Hayes. Coaches highlighted Mamukelashvili’s hustle, passing ability and defensive effort as a good complement to Luka Doncic’s play, noting that his presence alongside Kessler could improve the team’s rim protection and overall defensive cohesion.

Analysts view the revamped roster as a youthful core that could compete for a top‑six playoff seed if health and chemistry develop, though the group is still considered a work‑in‑progress.