It has been months since the trade that sent Luka Doncic to the Los Angeles Lakers, and questions still emerge about the young star's commitment to conditioning and training. In the aftermath of the deal, the Mavericks cited conditioning issues and weight problems as contributing factors in their decision, which lit a fire under Luka to change his entire approach.
"I've heard from folks that are pretty honest that Luka has already begun a clean slate, starting anew, in this mindset of changing a lot about himself," said Jason Gallagher on 'The Dumb Zone.'
It's been well known that Doncic, 26, has struggled to stay in shape throughout his career. Early on, it was a major problem for Doncic that would cause him to get worn down over a long and competitive playoff series. While Luka's numbers went up, and his accolades kept coming, the Mavericks grew increasingly displeased with their star for his poor work ethic and lazy defensive effort. Frustrations boiled over in the 2024 NBA Finals, when Doncic's mistakes led to an embarrassing defeat to the Boston Celtics.
It wasn't long after losing the Finals that Mavericks GM Nico Harrison began his secret trade negotiations with Rob Pelinka, and the rest is history. As a Laker, Doncic has a chance for a fresh start, and the Lakers have done everything they can to ease the transition.
They've catered to Luka in every way possible, while LeBron James and JJ Redick started working on a game plan to best utilize his talents on the floor. In the offseason, Rob Pelinka plans to add a center to help shape the roster around Doncic's game. Ultimately, however, it's up to No. 77 to shape his future, and only he can restore his legacy.
The good news is, being betrayed by the Mavericks has seemingly inspired Luka to address his flaws and change his mindset when it comes to self-discipline and conditioning. Using the example set by his teammate LeBron James, Doncic will put a renewed focus on his health and conditioning for the rest of his career. Instead of using the season to get into shape, Doncic will be training in the summer to ensure his body is ready from day one.
For a Lakers team that gave up so much to get Doncic, this is the best news to hear because if he fails to become the leader they need, it could set them back decades. With AD gone and LeBron James inching closer to retirement. Doncic is the future of the Lakers, and their success for the foreseeable future is directly linked to his performance.
With averages of 28.1 points, 8.2 rebounds, and 7.7 assists per game last season, Luka proved that he can still deliver at a high level, but he'll have to elevate his game further to take the Lakers through the Western Conference bracket. If he starts the work now and prepares for the grind ahead of time, Doncic will have his best chance of delivering the kind of season that will silence his critics once and for all.
