As the Los Angeles Lakers gear up for the 2025–26 NBA season, all eyes are on Luka Doncic—both for his performance and his physique. The 26-year-old All-NBA guard, who was acquired in a seismic trade deadline deal that sent Anthony Davis to Dallas, has visibly slimmed down. Doncic recently graced the cover of Men’s Health, showcasing a leaner frame that signals a new level of commitment ahead of his first full season in Los Angeles.
Stephen A. Smith Offers Measured Perspective on Doncic’s Offseason Work
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While Doncic’s physical transformation has been celebrated, ESPN’s Stephen A. Smith took a cautious tone on First Take earlier this week.
“No. Not any more scared than they already are. I mean the brother is phenomenal as an offensive talent, no doubt about this,” Smith said, tempering expectations that Doncic’s new physique alone would transform the Lakers’ fortunes.
Smith emphasized the difference between offseason progress and in-season consistency.
“There’s a difference between getting in shape in the offseason and staying in shape during the season… The conditioning is not only imperative, but does that mean you’re going to move without the ball? Does it mean you’re going to up your efforts on the defensive side of the ball? That’s where it’s really going to show,” Smith said.
Conditioning: A Known Concern Now Being Addressed
Doncic has long faced questions about his fitness despite elite production—career averages of 28.6 points, 8.6 rebounds, and 8.2 assists per game since 2018. His effort to silence critics has been visible and intentional.
“He’s been called out, he knows he’s been called out, and he’s responded to the challenge,” Smith added. “It’s nice to see him prioritize his conditioning because we know it’s been an Achilles heel of his.”
Lakers’ Vision: Doncic as the Focal Point
With LeBron James returning for his 23rd NBA season and head coach JJ Redick entering Year 2, the Lakers are clearly retooling around Doncic. New additions like Marcus Smart and Deandre Ayton reflect a renewed urgency to return to title contention.
As Smith noted: “It’s not just about how you look… the effort doesn’t end in the offseason. That’s when it starts.”
Early Glimpse at EuroBasket
Lakers fans won’t have to wait until the fall to see Doncic in action. He’ll lead Slovenia at EuroBasket later this summer, with an opening game against Poland on August 28—a first preview of what this new version of Luka might bring to Los Angeles.