Los Angeles Lakers superstar Luka Doncic has drawn widespread attention for his dramatic offseason conditioning. Featured recently in Men’s Health magazine, the 26-year-old appears poised to silence his critics.
While attending a New York Yankees game on Monday, Doncic discussed his Men’s Health feature. When asked if he would send a copy to the Mavericks, the superstar responded by saying:
“I think they’ve already seen it, so we don’t have to worry about that.”
Mavs GM Nico Harrison was among the many people who criticized Doncic’s conditioning. Reports suggested that the lack of attention he paid to fitness was viewed as a reason for his injuries, leading to growing skepticism about his ability to lead the franchise to title success.
When considering that the Slovenian had led the Mavericks to the NBA Finals just a year ago, the criticism seemed misaligned. Regardless, the comment about his fitness was all the motivation Doncic needed heading into the summer.
Coming off a postseason run filled with scrutiny, the Lakers’ superstar set out to reshape the narrative in what many are calling his revenge season. With a renewed focus on conditioning in the offseason, Doncic has seemingly surpassed expectations, displaying a physique that fans haven’t seen before.
Doncic’s training regimen has reportedly been influenced by Michael Jordan and Kobe Bryant, featuring a single-minded obsession with getting into the best possible shape he can.
After making significant dietary changes and enduring grueling workout plans, the guard appears to be in the best shape of his career. The 26-year-old also claims that these efforts have seen a resurgence in his athletic ability.
The Slovenian seems committed to the grind, adding that his efforts would be meaningless without long-term consistency. Following widespread backlash and questions about his competitive drive, Doncic seems to be responding in the best way possible: through action.
The upcoming season is primed to be a pivotal one for the guard, who has seemingly embraced his role as the face of the Lakers franchise. Having played an active role in recruiting free agents while also getting into shape, Doncic has displayed a commitment to the team that can only be considered reassuring.
Initial concerns regarding his decision to sign an extension with the Lakers have effectively dissipated, as the guard is expected to ink his future with the team this weekend.
Although the upcoming regular season is undoubtedly a priority, the 26-year-old will shift his attention to the EuroBasket tournament first. In the process of representing his home country, Slovenia, Doncic will also display the fruits of his labor.
