Reserve forward-center Sandro Mamukelashvili was cleared to play after dealing with an illness, giving the Los Angeles Lakers a timely roster boost ahead of Friday’s NBA Cup rematch against the Portland Trail Blazers at Crypto.com Arena.
Head coach JJ Redick retains a key piece of his second unit for the group play clash. The Lakers attempt to avenge a 136-129 defeat handed to them by Portland on October 27, 2026. The 27-year-old forward-center arrived in Los Angeles during the offseason.
Mamukelashvili Produces off the Bench in Recent Victory
Mamukelashvili has averaged 9.0 points, 4.6 rebounds, and 1.7 assists across 23.4 minutes per game through nine appearances in the campaign. He shoots 51.3 percent from the field.
Sandro Mamukelashvili, who is dealing with an illness, has been upgraded to available for tonight against Portland, the team says
The 6’9 forward signed a four-year, $52 million contract during the offseason. He operates as a preferred frontcourt option behind Walker Kessler.
Mamukelashvili contributed 13 points, eight rebounds, three assists, two steals, and one block across 29 minutes off the bench. This came in a recent 103-87 victory over the crosstown rival LA Clippers where the team played without Luka Doncic and three others. His versatility allows him to play next to Walker Kessler or operate as a smaller center. His strong play has also seen him replace Kevon Looney at the backup five position.
Roster Adjustments for NBA Cup Matchup
Los Angeles enters the evening having won seven of their first nine games of the 2026-27 season. Superstar guard Luka Doncic is making a strong early case to win his first NBA MVP award.
The Lakers will host the Portland Trail Blazers. Portland stands as one of only two teams to defeat Los Angeles this year.
Mamukelashvili received the green light after popping up on the injury report for the first time since signing over the summer due to an illness rather than an injury suffered in a game or practice. Adou Thiero is cleared and set to make his season debut.
Rookie Cameron Carr and third-year guard Bronny James have been sent down to the G League. They will potentially play in the season opener for Coachella Valley.