Luka Doncic might be entering his most dangerous form yet. According to one anonymous NBA coach, the league should be on high alert after the superstar’s offseason transformation, because a leaner, fitter Luka could take his dominance to another level.
“People should be very terrified,” the coach told Heavy Sports, before expanding on just how scary a fit Luka might be. “He was putting up big numbers when he was a chunk. I don’t know if he’ll score more, but he’s got to be a better player when he’s in shape. If he was one of the best players in the league as a blob, you have to figure he’s going to be able to push it even more now.”
Before Doncic’s offseason transformation, he was already one of the best players in the game. Last season, in 50 games for the Mavericks and Lakers, he averaged 28.2 points, 8.2 rebounds, and 7.7 assists per game on 45.0% shooting.
But after his blockbuster trade (which he deemed the ultimate disrespect), fans began to question Luka’s work ethic and conditioning. In response, he’s gotten into the best shape of his life, and his new, trimmed-down frame is raising a lot of attention across the NBA.
“I would be terrified. That guy, in shape? That’s scary,” said the coach. “I saw those pictures. That’s scary. Luka not in shape, was amazing. Now? I think it’s going to be frightening for the rest of the league.”
While the Mavericks criticized his conditioning on the way out, Doncic insists he was already on the path to transformation. At just 26 years old with seven years of experience in the NBA, it took some time for him to find a proper workout-training regimen, but that has changed now, thanks to heightened motivation from Doncic.
Through just 28 games with the Lakers, Luka has shown a clear commitment to bringing a championship to Los Angeles—whatever it takes. He wants to keep playing with LeBron James and establish a new dynasty in the Western Conference alongside key role-players like Austin Reaves, Deandre Ayton, and Rui Hachimura.
Ultimately, the Lakers’ success will come down to the performance of Doncic, which is why the Lakers have committed everything to try to maximize his talent. In only 28 games played, Luka has taken full control of the organization, and it’s got the competition shaking in their boots.
For now, there are still months to go before training camp, but Doncic has been hard at work since his arrival to set the stage for a massive playoff run. After their first-round loss last year, their chances of winning it all in 2026 are somewhat debatable, but Luka’s presence gives them a puncher’s chance at the least.
If this new version of Luka Doncic is even better than before, the rest of the NBA has reason to worry. He’s leaner, more focused, and entering his prime with a chip on his shoulder. The last time we saw a superstar take a leap like this, it changed the balance of power in the league, and Doncic might be next in line to do just that.
