The Los Angeles Lakers’ biggest offseason move in 2025 was acquiring Luka Doncic, but lingering concerns about his weight threaten to undo the physical progress he’s made since arriving in under LeBron James’ guidance.
Luka’s weight had previously been a source of concern during his time with the Dallas Mavericks, according to former GM Nico Harrison, as reports indicated that the European’s mass had climbed past 122 kilograms (269 pounds).
That’s far above the 104 kilograms (229 pounds) listed in official NBA records, and fears were sparked once again during a recent Lakers holiday gathering.
Deandre Ayton’s mother, Andrea Ayton, prepared an extensive spread, including oxtail, curry mutton, rice and peas, and fried chicken, sparking playful yet genuine worry among fans about its potential impact on Luka’s conditioning.
Despite the tempting feast, the Slovenian reportedly avoided loading a plate, showing astute awareness as he looks to chase down an NBA title for the first time in his illustrious career. Regardless, social media reactions decided to mock the star.
One fan pleaded, “Someone get Luka away from the buffet line. DA’s mom was COOOOKINGGGG.”
Whilst a second joked, “i guess luka is fat again.”
And a third commented, “I mean it get Luka away from that table immediately.”
Maintaining weight discipline is essential for the European ace to remain dominant and healthy throughout the NBA season. As the Lakers push toward contention in 2026, fans and analysts alike will watch closely.
While Luka’s scoring and playmaking have impressed, sustaining the discipline necessary to manage his weight will be crucial for both his longevity and the Lakers’ championship aspirations.
Weight part of why Doncic axed from Mavericks
Luka’s transformation from his Mavericks days has been significant as he shed roughly 30 pounds, improving mobility and endurance while putting up 35 points per game and helping the Lakers maintain an 18-7 record and the third seed in the Western Conference.
It’s a far cry from the Mavericks’ decision to trade Doncic to the Lakers in February 2025 based on conditioning concerns, as reports suggest the franchise saw a risk in his weight fluctuations despite his undeniable talent.
“He missed five games in late November when the Mavericks stated he was dealing with a right wrist sprain,” Tim MacMahon told ESPN. “However, this absence allowed him to focus on his conditioning.
“He had a similar temporary suspension during the 2022-2023 season.”
Doncic, sidelined with a calf injury at the time of the trade, had averaged 28.1 points, 8.3 rebounds, and 7.8 assists per game for Dallas since entering the league in 2018.
He remains an elite player, but Dallas reportedly questioned his long-term physical consistency.
LeBron’s influence on Luka may have been key, as known for his legendary work ethic and rigorous conditioning routines, James provides a model for maintaining peak performance and offers Doncic structure in Los Angeles.
Nico Harrison claimed Dallas’ future post-trade was better without Doncic, emphasizing roster improvements at the time as the team later selected Cooper Flagg in the NBA Draft. Harrison was sacked in November 2025.
“I believe that defence wins championships,” Harrison told ESPN. “I believe that getting an All-Defensive center and an All-NBA player with a defensive mindset gives us a better chance.
“We’re built to win now and in the future.”
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