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It's been a surprising offseason transformation for Los Angeles Lakers star Luka Doncic. Reports indicate that the five-time All-NBA first-team selection has lost around 30 pounds this summer.
That weight loss is already paying dividends on the court, with one NBA scout telling Dallas Hoops Journal how impressive Doncic looks.
“Man, he looks incredible,” the scout told DallasHoopsJournal.com. “He's quicker and more explosive. He's getting by people more easily. I think he's on a mission, man.”
The scout believes Doncic's mission is to win the NBA MVP.
“I think he's going to win MVP and the scoring title next season,” the scout said. “He wants to get revenge on Dallas for basically fat-shaming him.”
Doncic's in-game appearance came in a EuroBasket friendly against Germany on Friday, August 8. He finished with 19 points and five assists in 24 minutes of action.
It was one of his first games since signing his three-year, $165 million extension with the Lakers on August 2. After being traded by the Mavericks at the 2024 NBA Trade Deadline, Doncic is now energized to make a lasting impact with his new franchise.
“Being a Laker is an honor, and I wanted to be here,” Doncic said following his contract extension. “When you look up here, so many great names and what they achieved; I want to be up there too one day.”
The Mavericks were reportedly unhappy with Doncic's weight and conditioning. His response has been fiery, losing around 30 pounds this offseason.
He credited “the fresh start” as the motivation behind his improved conditioning, which he believes will enhance his speed, playing time, and defensive abilities.
Besides his five All-NBA first-team selections, Doncic is also a former NBA Rookie of the Year and scoring champ. In just 28 regular-season games with the Lakers, he averaged 28.2 points, 8.1 rebounds, and 7.5 assists per game.
Doncic and the Lakers kick off the 2025-26 season on October 21, when they host the Golden State Warriors on opening night.
