The Los Angeles Lakers enter the new season with one of the NBA’s most intriguing partnerships: Luka Doncic alongside LeBron James – but how is Doncic making sure he watches the weight?
The February trade that sent Doncic from the Dallas Mavericks to Los Angeles stunned the basketball world, and his subsequent extension has cemented him as a central figure in the franchise’s future.
The pairing with James promises enormous potential. Both players are renowned for their vision, court awareness, and ability to dictate pace, and their combined presence already reshaped expectations last season.
With the Lakers going 15-8 in games where they shared the floor, the team should now only be even stronger with the addition of Deandre Ayton at center and there is optimism that Los Angeles now possesses the balance it previously lacked.
Luka Doncic’s supposed weight issues are behind him
How is the Slovenian making sure he keeps in control of the pounds after it was said to have contributed to his decline with the Mavs?
This offseason, the European ace made a notable change to his approach by staying away from playing basketball, skipping any organized practises – although he did shoot solo baskets at times.
“It was hard,” Doncic admitted. “I didn’t practice basketball.
“It was hard, I’m a very competitive guy, I like to play basketball, I like to play 5-on-5, 4-on-4, 3-on-3, whatever it is. It was hard, but at the same point, it was kind of fun.”
This approach was partly a response to directives from Lakers coach JJ Redick, who emphasized improved conditioning and endurance following last season’s first-round playoff exit against the Minnesota Timberwolves.
Doncic’s dedication showed results as he not only appeared on the cover of Men’s Health but also delivered over 34 points per game while representing Slovenia at EuroBasket.
The shift in Doncic’s routine may also have roots in the circumstances of his departure from Dallas after reports following the trade suggested the Mavericks were frustrated with his conditioning and off-court habits.
Those criticisms, paired with the opportunity to prove himself in Los Angeles, appear to have motivated the 25-year-old to alter his habits.
If the physical transformation continues, it could amplify his already formidable impact. The Lakers are counting on him not only to sustain his scoring but also to mesh fully with James, whose 23rd season will be shaped by the new partnership.
Luka Doncic reacts to new Los Angeles Lakers roster
Roster changes have only heightened expectations in Los Angeles of a first NBA championship since the 2020 campaign, with additions designed to enhance both scoring and chemistry.
The front office has signaled an all-in pursuit of contention as they look for a balanced roster but what does their Balkan star make of the approach? Reflecting on the moves, Doncic praised the organization’s vision.
“Every year,” Doncic said. “The Lakers seem to find a way to build a competitive squad. Adding players of that caliber can definitely make them a threat.
“The Western Conference is tough, and teams are always looking to improve. The Lakers have made their intentions clear, and it’s going to be interesting to see how everything plays out during the season.”
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