Sandro Mamukelashvili could unlock the court for Scottie Barnes

The Toronto Raptors have signed center Sandro Mamukelashvili to a two-year, $5.5 million contract, aiming to address the team's need for spacing. General Manager Bobby Webster recognizes that spacing is crucial for star player Scottie Barnes to excel, particularly when attacking the basket or exploiting mismatches in the post, which was often hindered by traditional centers clogging the paint.

Mamukelashvili (6'11", 240 lbs) provides Barnes with a "stretch-five" option – a center who can shoot from the perimeter. This is significant because since Barnes was drafted in 2021, he has played on some of the worst three-point shooting Raptors teams, with limited access to effective shooting centers. Previously, the best shooting centers Barnes played with were Kelly Olynyk, Precious Achiuwa, Chris Boucher, and Orlando Robinson.

Statistically, Mamukelashvili averaged one made three-pointer per game at a 37.3% clip last season. If he had been on the Raptors last season, he would have been the team's only big man averaging at least one three-pointer while shooting above the league average. While not projected to be a starter or closer, Mamukelashvili offers intriguing lineup combinations that the Raptors haven't had since their 2019 championship run.