Luka Doncic didn’t hold back when asked about the Los Angeles Lakers and their biggest key to success heading into the new NBA season. His insight into the Lakers’ mindset has caught the attention of players and analysts alike. Despite a disappointing 1–5 NBA Preseason, this Lakers team still displayed flashes of brilliance and encouraging signs of chemistry and rhythm.. However, Doncic pointed out one crucial area that could determine how far they go once the games start to count: physicality.

Speaking to reporters after a recent Lakers' NBA Preseason outing, Doncic emphasized the difference between training sessions and live competition. “I mean obviously the practice is different,” he said. “And I think the practices were more physical.” For him, that level of toughness isn’t just a minor detail, it’s the foundation of championship-level basketball. Therefore, the Lakers, now built around Doncic’s all-around brilliance and a retooled supporting cast, must lean into that edge if they want to dominate through an 82-game grind.

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Moreover, Doncic admitted that despite the preseason improvements, there’s still room to grow. “I say we need to work on our physicality sometimes,” he added. His comment wasn’t a critique but rather a challenge to the entire roster. The Lakers have size, experience, and skill, but maintaining physical intensity throughout the season separates contenders from pretenders.

At the same time, observers have noted that the Lakers' Luka Doncic era brings a mix of European precision and Los Angeles flair. Yet, as Doncic pointed out, flash alone won’t be enough. The team must win the battles inside the paint, on loose balls, and in defensive rotations. That’s where physicality matters most, the dirty work that fuels the highlight plays.

As the regular season approaches, the Lakers are still refining their rhythm. However, with Luka Doncic setting the tone both on and off the court, there’s little doubt the message has landed. The question now is whether this team can turn that awareness into dominance when the real games begin.