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Lakers consider lineup change with Sandro Mamukelashvili amid roster shifts

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Sep 14, 2026, 2:16 AM

Last updated Sep 14, 2026

Lakers consider lineup change with Sandro Mamukelashvili amid roster shifts

Summary

The Los Angeles Lakers face significant decisions regarding their starting lineup as they prepare for the upcoming season. Injuries and departures have left the forward positions lacking depth, particularly after losing LeBron James and Rui Hachimura. Insider Ryan Ward suggests Sandro Mamukelashvili's strong showing in the FIBA World Cup positions him as a leading candidate for a starting role. The Lakers may also evaluate other forwards like Jake LaRavia and Jarred Vanderbilt, alongside potential new signings. Training camp will be crucial for finalizing the lineup as the team looks to build a competitive roster around Luka Doncic, Austin Reaves, and Walker Kessler.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

Key Details

•Lakers lose LeBron James and Rui Hachimura before the season.
•Sandro Mamukelashvili's FIBA performance draws attention for a starting spot.
•Training camp will determine final starting lineup options.
•Other candidates include Jake LaRavia and Jarred Vanderbilt.
•Marcus Smart and Luke Kennard's departures create more opportunities.

Latest Updates

2:16 AMYahoo Sports — Lakers Insider Reveals Big Starting Lineup Change Team Needs

What they're saying

"
The Los Angeles Lakers will have some important decisions to make for the team’s starting lineup and could see Sandro Mamukelashvili playing a big part. Lakers insider Ryan Ward commented on Mamukelashvili’s strong performances for Georgia in the FIBA World Cup. The Lakers currently lack depth at forward after losing both starters LeBron James and […] The post Lakers Insider Reveals Big Starting Lineup Change Team Needs appeared first on HEAVY.
— Yahoo Sports

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