Luka Doncic's Subtle Jab at the Dallas Mavericks Amid Los Angeles Lakers Resurgence and Contract Talks
Luka Doncic
's offseason transformation hasn't just turned heads in the fitness world - it's also stirred up talk of revenge, humor, and a fresh chapter with the
Los Angeles Lakers
.
As the 2025-26 NBA season approaches, the 26-year-old superstar has clearly prioritized his physical condition, making headlines with a visibly leaner, more athletic build. That commitment was on full display during a recent appearance at Yankee Stadium, where
Luka Doncic
stood alongside New York Yankees slugger Aaron Judge in a high-profile photo op.
While there, he engaged in a light-hearted conversation with Yankees broadcaster Michael Kay. When asked if he should send his former team - the
Dallas Mavericks
- a copy of Men's Health magazine featuring his fit new look, Luka Doncic grinned and quipped, 'They probably saw it.
I don't have to worry about that.'
The remark, reported by the Los Angeles Times' Steve Henson, was a subtle yet sharp jab at the Mavericks, who had reportedly grown concerned over Doncic's conditioning prior to trading him to the Lakers at the Feb. 6 deadline last season.
Now, with a renewed focus and a promising future in
Los Angeles
, Luka Doncic seems poised to silence those doubts. In just 28 regular-season games with the Lakers, he posted elite numbers:
28.2 points, 8.1 rebounds, 7.5 assists per game, shooting 37.9% from deep on 9.6 attempts.
Although the Lakers bowed out early in the 2025 playoffs with a first-round loss to the Minnesota Timberwolves, their offseason moves suggest a stronger, more balanced roster heading into the new campaign.
Up next for Luka Doncic: extension talks. Eligible to re-sign with the Lakers after August 2, he's expected to choose between a 4-year, $222 million deal or a 3-year, $161 million option. Either way, the Slovenian star appears committed to winning titles in the purple and gold - possibly while continuing to make light of the team that let him go.
Also read:
Khloé Kardashian Reveals Why She Has Taken on Caretaker Role for Tristan Thompson's Brother Amari: 'He Has a Handful of Seizures Everyday!'
His body might have transformed, but Luka Doncic's sense of humor - and competitive fire - clearly haven't gone anywhere. Let us know in the comments what you feel about Luka's latest tranformation.
Catch Rani Rampal's inspiring story on Game On, Episode 4. Watch Here!
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