What happened: The Lakers have surfaced as a suitor for big man Sandro Mamukelashvili as free agency opens for the 2026-27 season. The link adds another frontcourt option to Los Angeles' list of targets heading into the market.

Why it matters: Frontcourt depth has been a recurring need for the Lakers, and Mamukelashvili profiles as a stretch big who can space the floor. The interest comes after Mamukelashvili declined his team option to reach free agency, making him available on the open market.

What to watch: Watch whether the Lakers move quickly once free agency officially opens and how Mamukelashvili's market develops against other interested teams.