Luka Doncic is proving that he is in the argument for the best player in the world with his performances at the 2022 EuroBasket tournament. He just made history by becoming the first player in over 30 years to have 3 consecutive 30-point games in the competition. In one of those games, Luka scored 47 points, the second-most in EuroBasket history.
One of the reasons for Luka’s success could be based on the shape he is in. Many have noticed that Doncic is looking a lot more muscular than he did at the end of the 2021-22 season, meaning he has worked very hard to be in shape for his country. With the NBA season starting soon after EuroBasket, Luka will have a chance to go into training camp in playing shape.
He was asked about the people who criticize his weight, and he had a blunt response to the same.
“If I cared about what people I don’t hang out with say, I wouldn’t be here. I don’t mind at all”
Luka Doncic was asked about comments on his physical shape and condition.
"If I cared about what people I don't hang out with say, I wouldn't be here. I don't mind at all" pic.twitter.com/b9rrGtGz8Q
— Antonis Stroggylakis (@AStroggylakis) September 10, 2022
Does Luka Doncic Need To Change His Body To Improve?
Luka Doncic has proven that he is arguably one of the most unstoppable players in the league. As a point guard, he uses his body to outmuscle most players that guard him. He is a master of pace, so an athletic forward usually can’t guard him either, as proven by Mikal Bridges’ struggles during the playoffs.
His body and the weight he carries is an important tool that Luka uses to create separation from his defenders. Losing that weight might take away the pressure he draws while driving to the rim, as defenses need to collapse to stop Luka from getting an easy basket.
The only issue with Luka last season was his conditioning, as he came into the season out-of-shape and ended up hurting his ankle. However, after he returned and got into playing shape, Doncic started dominating the league and led the Mavericks to win 50 games. He has worked hard this summer, but it doesn’t seem like he needs to dramatically alter his body to be effective.
