Lakers' Luka Doncic Already in Great Shape, Says Deandre Ayton

One of the biggest topics of conversation when the playoffs ended for the Los Angeles Lakers was the conditioning of Luka Doncic. Doncic looked out of shape in the first-round series against the Timberwolves.

Doncic was constantly getting targeted on the defensive end of the court, which is nothing new. His low foot speed is a big negative to his game. He hasn't been a good defensive player in his entire career.

Following that disappointing series loss, the Lakers put Doncic on a revamped offseason conditioning program to get him in better shape.

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Apparently, the conditioning program is already working. According to the newest Lakers player, Deandre Ayton, the program is already doing wonders for Doncic.

“This feels like a video game. Like somebody set it up. Like somebody set this up. But honestly, this is an opportunity that I won’t take for granted. Luka is a once-in-a-generation player, and I’m happy to be his teammate. Hearing about the kind of shape he’s been in, he’s super ripped, and I’m finally glad to be on his side when he’s doing all of that. And I’m just truly excited. I’m a student of the game, and I love to play with a passion. And the love I have received, and I’ve not even thrown on a jersey, I can only show you guys my appreciation.”

No one has ever described Doncic as "ripped" before, so this is an interesting change in his physique. The Lakers don't even need him to be ripped; they just need him not to be gassed in the playoffs.

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The Lakers need Doncic to be able to hold up late in April when the stakes are the highest. They also want him to start the season in better shape, as he usually plays himself into shape by December.

Part of the reason why the Lakers traded for Doncic is that they thought they could change his habits when it comes to conditioning to make him even better.

Fans won't find out how well this program is working until the season starts. Doncic has to stay committed to this program for the entire offseason for it to mean anything.

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