Luka Dončić, the star player for the Los Angeles Lakers, is making waves after showcasing his impressive physical transformation on the cover of Men’s Health. This change comes as a response to past criticisms regarding his conditioning, which some analysts speculate contributed to his surprising trade in February, a deal that included Lakers big man Anthony Davis heading to the Dallas Mavericks.
In an interview on NBC’s “TODAY” show, Dončić revealed that he and his team experimented with various training and dietary adjustments this offseason that included a month-long break from basketball—an unusual step for him. “Different food, different practices,” he explained, noting the challenges that came with such a shift.
Despite his ongoing evolution as a player, Dončić, who is a five-time All-Star and was the NBA’s leading scorer last season with an impressive average of 33.9 points per game, faced significant scrutiny regarding his physical state. Following his trade, concerns emerged from the Mavericks about committing to him for the long-term amidst conditioning issues and the impending negotiation of a supermax contract extension.
Through all the noise, Dončić remained focused on his performance, averaging 28.2 points, 8.1 rebounds, and 7.5 assists per game after joining the Lakers. However, after the team’s early postseason exit against the Minnesota Timberwolves, he recognized the need for further improvement.
His dedication to fitness led him to adopt a gluten-free, low-sugar diet and implement two-a-day workouts, resulting in a notable physical transformation ahead of the upcoming season.
As Dončić gears up for the new season, he faces an important decision: whether to sign a lucrative four-year contract extension worth $223 million to stay with the Lakers. When asked about his plans during the interview, he playfully dismissed the question.
This journey not only highlights Dončić’s commitment to his craft but also serves as an inspiring reminder of the importance of resilience and self-improvement in professional sports. His transformative efforts may well pay off, not only in enhancing his performance on the court but also in securing a bright future with the Lakers.