James Worthy says ‘high-octane’ LA Lakers star reminds him of Manu Ginobili

Former LA Lakers star James Worthy has expressed his admiration for one of JJ Redick’s new stars.

The LA Lakers‘ new roster has offered glimpses of promise during their opening preseason games. In their loss to the Nuggets, former player Robert Horry praised new signing Ziaire Williams.

Sandro ‘Mamu’ Mamukelashvili has caught the attention of James Worthy, who compared him to NBA legend Manu Ginobili.

Worthy told the Lakers’ postgame show on Spectrum: “His style of play, like Manu a little bit. Lefty, guy that can herky jerky, can get in the lane, can create shots, can start to break. Tough as nails, physical.”

Mamukelashvili scored 15 points for the Lakers against the Nuggets, also grabbing 8 rebounds and 4 assists.

Worthy has a positive outlook on the free agent signing: “I think he’s going to be a major, major asset to this team.

“I knew he had skills, but what he’s shown us just in this short sample, he’s pretty solid, high octane.”

Austin Reaves also praised Mamu after the game, and explained how the Lakers players are encouraging him to drive the ball up the court and add pace to the team’s play.

Worthy’s words are the highest compliment. A comparison to Manu Ginobili is impossible to live up to – but the comment will be nice for the Lakers star to hear.

JJ Redick spoke back at the LA Lakers media day about his plans for Sandro Mamukelashvili, and explained that he wants to be fluid.

Redick described Mamu as an ‘offensive connector’, and explained that he could fulfil multiple roles.

“He can fit in a number of places. I’m sure he’ll see minutes versus certain teams at the five. He’ll play some on the wing.”

Mamu’s versatility helps Redick, because he has so many other new parts to this Lakers roster that he is trying to mesh together.

Whether he starts or comes off the bench, we can expect Mamu to be involved heavily once the Lakers’ season begins.