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Luka Doncic's Teammate Fires Blunt Remark on Conditioning Issue

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Paolo Mariano | Last updated Feb 4, 2025 3:39 PM ET

Los Angeles Lakers guard Luka Doncic addressed concerns about his conditioning during his introductory press conference on Tuesday.

He said learning that the Dallas Mavericks were alarmed by his conditioning has become a motivation for him as he begins his tenure with the Lakers, who acquired him in a blockbuster trade.

The 25-year-old superstar has visibly gotten bigger each year. Still, he remains one of the NBA's most potent offensive weapons, with Doncic using his heft to his advantage by bullying smaller defenders.

In 22 games this season, prior to his calf injury, the five-time All-Star was averaging 28.1 points, 8.3 rebounds and 7.8 assists.

Markieff Morris, who returned to the Lakers as part of the Mavericks' package, along with Maxi Kleber, couldn't understand why there have been concerns about Doncic's conditioning.

“He’s a great guy, super low maintenance," said Morris in a video posted by ClutchPoints' Tomer Azarly on X. "One of the only guys I’ve been on a team with that’ll play through any injury if he could get on the court.

"I hear stuff about him not being in shape, but if you can go in an NBA game and get 30, 15, and 10, then I don’t know what shape is. I'm confused at that part."

Doncic, who led the league in scoring last season, hasn't played since Christmas Day. Multiple reports said he's gained weight during his extended recovery period.

Lakers general manager Rob Pelinka said they already brought in Doncic's sports performance team to help him return to action soon.

Morris, meanwhile, could see limited minutes in his second run with the Lakers. He won a title with the squad in 2020. He's only played seven games this season.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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