Luka Doncic has shown a distinct commitment to the Los Angeles Lakers this offseason. In addition to signing his contract extension, the superstar invested a significant amount of effort in improving his conditioning to prepare for the 2025-26 campaign. As impressive as this display has been, five-time NBA champion Derek Fisher had an important word of advice for the 26-year-old.
While appearing on ESPN LA, Fisher advised Doncic to remain disciplined in his approach. He said:
“The responsibility is, it’s hard to describe. My shoes were never the size of Luka’s, in terms of really carrying the franchise into the next iteration and generation. I think the biggest thing is being a champion. While Lakers fans and the organization are always going to go for it every season, for Luka and guys that look like they’re going to be here for multiple years, you still have to have the willingness to play the long game. Right? You’re looking to win now, but your habits have to last for a decade.”
Consistency and discipline are undoubtedly going to be key factors for the star guard to focus on moving forward. As the face of the franchise, the Lakers will look at Doncic to set an example.
In this regard, the guard has done a tremendous job by making a conscious effort to improve his conditioning over the offseason. Having endured a rigorous fitness regime, Doncic is expected to make a huge splash with the hope of leading the Lakers’ title charge next season.
Doncic’s commitment to fitness has had a positive impact on his performance as well. While his displays at EuroBasket 2025 are the only barometer at this stage, it is evident that the 26-year-old is showing marked improvement on both ends of the floor, with his defensive effort being particularly noteworthy.
Fisher’s comment also assumes that Doncic will be a Laker for years to come. When considering the guard’s latest contract extension, the 26-year-old signed a three-year deal, allowing him to potentially sign a lucrative five-year deal with the team once he is due for an extension in 2028.
While Doncic’s investment is being taken into account, it is abundantly clear that the Lakers have also invested significantly in the Slovenian sensation.
From the manner in which the roster has been built to the treatment he has received from the organization this offseason, the Purple and Gold view Doncic as the face of this franchise and intend to have him remain in that role for the foreseeable future.
Last season, Doncic notched an impressive average of 28.2 points, 8.2 rebounds, and 7.7 assists per game. Although the guard claims that the physical transformation hasn’t impacted his game, several fans and media personalities forecast great things from him in the upcoming season, with many expecting an MVP-caliber performance.
