By Johnny Askounis/ info@eurohoops.net
Slovenian superstar Luka Doncic has shared high praise for several Los Angeles Lakers teammates, including Sandro Mamukelashvili.
When asked about the Georgian forward-center after team practice on Saturday, the Ljubljana native highlighted a rare skill set for modern bigs.
“I knew what kind of player he was. Obviously played against him, but I think just his ability to handle the ball and to see the court, some of his passes, I think is very underrated,” mentioned Doncic. “That’s the thing that most impressed me.”
With Doncic commanding the floor as the undisputed leader, Los Angeles is wrapping up their NBA Preseason 2026 schedule. The roster travels to Las Vegas to face the Golden State Warriors at T-Mobile Arena on Tuesday. They return home Friday to host the Denver Nuggets. Next Wednesday, they will launch the 2026–27 Regular Season against Golden State at crypto.com Arena.
Both Doncic and Mamukelashvili have posted stellar numbers during this exhibition stretch. The six-time All-Star with 569 career appearances, including 97 with the Lakers, is averaging 22.0 points, 3.0 assists, and 2.5 rebounds per preseason game.
Meanwhile, his new teammate has adjusted seamlessly to the team coached by JJ Redick. The former Seton Hall standout with 278 games of experience is currently tallying 14.0 points, 3.7 assists, and 2.0 rebounds per game.
This natural chemistry illustrates a growing European connection in Southern California.
Beyond their roles with the Lakers, both remain focal points for Slovenia and Georgia in FIBA international tournaments.
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