In his recent sample, Sandro Mamukelashvili has proven to be an absolute beast for Toronto.
The Raptors haven't had an easy time as the new year rolled in, especially with the ongoing concern over Jakob Poeltl's status. Without their only true center in the lineup, the team has had to make do with the roster resources available to them in the meantime. Looking for a boost from Sandro Mamukelashvili, a guy who’s been an absolute offseason win in every sense and a real threat for the Raptors’ bench, Toronto has continued to benefit from Mamu’s masterful play — even in his slightly adjusted role.
Sandro Mamukelashvili has been lighting it up for the Raptors lately
Averaging 27.9 minutes over his last five games, Mamukelashvili’s stats really showcase his all-around brilliance: 18.2 points on 62.1% shooting, 46.2% from three, along with 7.0 rebounds, 3.0 assists, and nearly a steal per game (0.8). He's been a key part of the Raptors' 3-2 run over that five-game stretch, as they’re currently riding a three-game winning streak to close out this West Coast trip.
As a matter of fact, in Toronto’s last outing against the Portland Trail Blazers on January 23, Sandro Mamukelashvili led all Raptors scorers with 22 points on 9-for-15 shooting, including 3-for-6 from deep, and a team-high plus/minus of +25.
The reason I say Mamu has been flying under the radar, it feels like the spotlight is often on Scottie Barnes, Brandon Ingram, and even Immanuel Quickley — especially after his recent barn burner against Golden State. Meanwhile, Mamukleashvili keeps consistently showing up as a smooth operator and a big-time bucket-getter, even though he’s not the top star per se. Toronto needs every bit of that, especially after recently losing another blooming Raptors stud in Collin Murray-Boyles, who’s also been filling in at the five during Jakob Poeltl’s absence.
But even when CMB returns, I think Mamukelashvili can keep this momentum going. Sure, Murray-Boyles brings solid defense and versatility, but Mamukelashvili adds that extra offensive edge that Toronto craves at the center spot. His unique blend of reliable shooting, the ability to find good looks whether cutting inside or staying close to the basket, and his solid passing and ball-control for a big make him truly impactful. Plus, he's a great burst of energy whether he's in the starting lineup or coming off the bench.
Definitely a Raptors fan’s delight and a true gem for Toronto to have in their arsenal.