By Johnny Askounis/ info@eurohoops.net
Luka Doncic is the engine of the Los Angeles Lakers. Alongside him, Sandro Mamukelashvili is fitting into a retooled roster. Following two intense days of training camp under head coach JJ Redick, both European players broke down the team’s progress.
The Slovenian superstar enters the 2026–27 season with massive expectations. He knows that building on-court chemistry with a revamped roster will take time. “Some things you’re going to figure out quicker. Some you’re going to figure out later. I feel like we had a great first practice,” he shared on Tuesday.
“I think we’ve got some great players,” he added. “Austin and me at the head of the snake, how to say it. I think we got a lot of underrated players that can improve a lot offensively and defensively. So, I’m very excited for both.”
Doncic is also eager to pair up with Walker Kessler. The big height alters the geometry of the floor. “You just throw it up there, he’s there,” he noted. “That helps us a lot.”
When asked who will win the final two starting spots, he deferred to his coach. He stated that lineup choices belong to Redick.
European connection
The Lakers are leaning heavily into international basketball IQ this year. Like Doncic, Sandro Mamukelashvili grew up in the European system.
“It is very empowering,” he said following Wednesday’s practice, revealing how Redick values his versatility. “He believes in me. He knows I can just be a basketball player, doesn’t have to specifically give me a role.”
Though the Lakers offense will look different, defense remains the priority. Mamukelashvili described the first two days of camp as a battle.
“It was very, very hard,” he shared. “We were pushing and shoving and just trying to make sure we help each other get better.”
Developing in Italy and Georgia, Mamu modeled his game after Croatian legend Toni Kukoc.
“He stretched the floor, and he’s a hell of a passer,” he mentioned. “I started doing a little bit of magic tricks with the ball when I was young, and I love passing.”
Make