Luka Doncic Joins Lakers After Body Transformation

Luka Doncic, following a high-profile trade from the Dallas Mavericks, is set to begin his first full season with the Los Angeles Lakers after an offseason marked by a dramatic body transformation. Motivated by criticism of his conditioning—which reportedly influenced the Mavericks' decision to trade him—Doncic adopted a rigorous regimen in Croatia, featuring twice-daily 90-minute workouts, a gluten-free, low-sugar, high-protein diet, and intermittent fasting. His training, overseen by a specialized team, combined weightlifting, agility drills, and low-impact sports like pickleball and padel to enhance his fitness and recovery. Doncic cites inspiration from NBA legends and a renewed sense of purpose as driving forces behind his efforts. At 26, he acknowledges acquiring a deeper understanding of NBA-level conditioning, viewing this summer as a critical breakthrough. Both Lakers staff and Doncic believe these changes could significantly elevate his performance in Los Angeles.