Luka Doncic’s shape has always been a hot topic despite his stunning performance. Doncic was traded to the Los Angeles Lakers in February, which shocked the sports world. What sparked more buzz online was when he seemingly looked slimmer in the recent pictures, which went viral online.
Doncic reportedly has been focusing on conditioning and diet following the season’s conclusion. In fact, NBA contributor Evan Sidery posted a side-by-side comparison image in March where he mentioned the 26-year-old player’s “noticeable drop in weight.” It has also been said that the motivation might have come from his shocking mid-season trade to the Lakers.
Recently, Lakers insider Dan Woike of The Athletic has revealed that Doncic is following a “strict diet” which has resulted in a “significant” drop in his weight. Let’s dive into this report and what it means for the Lakers.
Woike further wrote that the new Lakers star is “committed to his conditioning this offseason.” The former Dallas Mavericks star is also “working on cardio training” and “spent a month away from on-court work to focus more on his body.”
It seems that Doncic is ready to start the new chapter of his professional career by putting in a lot of serious work. Considering that his physical appearance has always been discussed, the results are turning heads ahead of the upcoming season. It is to be seen how the Lakers’ point guard would lead his side alongside LeBron James for a significant title chase.
Doncic went through a crazy midseason where he was traded for Anthony Davis. Despite the eventful 2024-25 season, the five-time NBA All-Star’s instant adaptation at the franchise has been impressive. Doncic quickly brought exceptional changes in playmaking and scoring, paired with LeBron. The 6-foot-6 guard averaged 28.2 points, 8.2 rebounds, and 7.7 assists. With Luka, the Lakers posted an 18-10 record and closed the season as the three seed. However, the Lakers fell short to the Minnesota Timberwolves in the first round of the playoffs.
If the reports are to be true, fans might be able to see the return of slim Luka. Doncic’s defensive shortcomings have been criticized, including by his former team. Nevertheless, Doncic has now fully committed himself to getting in better shape, which should result in the defensive end and add some quickness. It seems like the newly added guard doesn’t want to take any chances in the title race next season. Luka has been an elite player since entering the league, but this change could take him to another level.
Losing weight will also prevent injuries for Luka. If Doncic is in tip-top shape and is engaged defensively, the Lakers’ title chances will skyrocket. Ultimately, Lakers fans should be thrilled by the latest Luka news and the possible improvements connected to it.
Featured image: © Jerome Miron-Imagn Images
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