'This Is Just The Start': Luka Doncic's Wild Transformation Underlines Thirst For NBA Success With Lakers

News18

3 days ago

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Doncic, 26, has committed to rigorous workouts, transforming himself for the upcoming season. He is also expected to sign a four-year extension with the Lakers.
Luka Doncic, at just 26, has already built a Hall of Fame resume: five All-NBA First Team selections, 82 career triple-doubles (seventh all-time).
Yet, one narrative has lingered — his fitness.
For years, despite his elite production, Doncic's physique drew more attention than his stat lines. Critics pointed to his offseason weight fluctuations, and last August, he was publicly criticized for looking 'fat" during a charity game. When the Mavericks traded him to the Lakers in February, whispers followed — stories about his off-court habits, including beer, hookah, and even speculation that he was on Ozempic.
But this summer, the conversation has changed — dramatically.
Doncic spoke candidly to Men's Health's, revealing that he launched straight into two-a-day workouts the moment the Lakers were eliminated in the first round of the playoffs by Minnesota.
'Obviously, I'm very competitive. This summer was just a little bit different, you know. It kind of motivated me to be even better."
The Slovenian star also admitted he didn't fully grasp the demands of the NBA during his early years, which ultimately led to his fitness declining over the initial years.
'When I came to the NBA, I was 18," he said. 'Honestly, I didn't know what to expect those first four or five years. Then I said, 'I need to do this.'"
'Especially in the NBA, you travel almost all the time. You're never home," he explained. 'And for me, you know, after the season, going back home, it's a big thing. I see my friends, my family, I see everybody. So it's not easy for sure."
But now, Doncic is embracing the challenge. His approach to fitness is no longer reactive — it's foundational.
'Obviously, be the best that I can be, take care of myself," he said. 'This year, with my team, I think we did a huge step. But this is just the start, you know. I need to keep going. Can't stop."
Lakers Betting Big on a Revitalized Star
With LeBron James nearing the twilight of his career, the Lakers are entering a new era — one with Doncic as the centerpiece. And they're backing that vision with long-term commitment.
According to recent reports, Doncic is expected to sign a four-year contract extension with the Lakers when he becomes eligible on August 2.
Now, along with his newfound dedication to fitness, the Lakers will be more than happy to blindly sign who they perceive to be the face of their franchise (and the league) for years to come.
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