Once again, Toronto Raptors fans are hoping their team turns a corner in the new season.
If that’s going to happen, it’ll require big input from new stars.
Keith Smith wrote about Sandro Mamukelashvili on X, noting the success he has found in this year’s EuroBasket tournament.
Smith said that the upcoming season could be a breakout one for Mamukelashvili.
“It’s a pretty deep frontcourt group in Toronto but Sandro Mamukelashvili has a chance for a breakout season. Should start as the primary backup for Jakob Poeltl. Raptors have to be excited about what he’s shown in EuroBasket. Really good performances from Mamukelashvili so far,” Smith posted on X.
It's a pretty deep frontcourt group in Toronto but Sandro Mamukelashvili has a chance for a breakout season. Should start as the primary backup for Jakob Poeltl. Raptors have to be excited about what he's shown in EuroBasket. Really good performances from Mamukelashvili so far.
— Keith Smith (@KeithSmithNBA) August 31, 2025
Mamukelashvili has been a sight to see during his EuroBasket games.
He recently posted 19 points, seven rebounds, and six assists as Team Georgia overtook defending champions Spain.
He has spent four seasons in the NBA, playing for the Milwaukee Bucks and San Antonio Spurs.
Last season, he averaged 6.3 points and 3.1 rebounds for the Spurs but only spent 11.2 minutes on the floor during his 61 games.
He is coming to the Raptors, who are still attempting to create a reliable and strong roster that can remain consistent for the whole season.
A lot of people might be counting them out, which means the Raptors could overperform and impress.
If he keeps playing well, Mamukelashvili could earn a lot of minutes on the court in the new season.
He might be a backup player behind Jakob Poeltl, but he could also work his way into the rotation often.
He is showing a ton of promise during the EuroBasket tournament, and that could work wonders for the road ahead in Toronto.
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