The Los Angeles Lakers wrapped up their regular season with a 50-32 record, capturing the Pacific Division title and securing the No. 3 seed in the Western Conference. A major point of excitement for fans heading into the new season is Luka Doncic’s remarkable physical change, which has sparked widespread attention following his recent acquisition by the Lakers.
In his first year under head coach J.J. Redick, the Lakers earned their third consecutive playoff appearance but were eliminated in the first round by the Minnesota Timberwolves in a 4-1 series loss. Despite this disappointing outcome, the franchise’s midseason trade to bring Doncic on board injected fresh optimism around the team’s prospects. That enthusiasm intensified recently when a casual video surfaced showing Doncic noticeably leaner compared to previous appearances.
Now 26, Luka Doncic reportedly adopted a disciplined offseason routine centered around a strict diet and rigorous workouts in preparation for his first full season in Los Angeles. Fans quickly took to social media to comment on his transformed physique.
League is in trouble,
—user
Ain’t seen him like this since his rookie year, bron definitely influenced him,
—fan
I’ll never forgive Dallas for trading Luka smh,
—commenter
I wonder tho is him being too skinny going to affect his playing style?
—fan
He’s done with y’all saying he’s out of shape,
—user
He looks like an impostor lol,
—fan
Doncic joins a Lakers roster featuring veteran forward LeBron James, versatile forward Jarred Vanderbilt, and guard Austin Reaves, forming a core that many hope can contend for the championship. Over his five-year NBA career, Doncic has emerged as one of the league’s premier talents, earning five All-Star nods, five All-NBA First-Team selections, the 2024 scoring title, and repeated recognition as an MVP candidate.
Before the trade, Doncic led the Dallas Mavericks to the 2024 NBA Finals while averaging 30.9 points, 9.2 rebounds, and 7.8 assists per game. After moving to Los Angeles in February, he maintained elite production with 28.2 points, 8.1 rebounds, and 7.5 assists per game, posting a 43.8% shooting rate from the field and 37.9% from beyond the arc. His presence coincided with an 18-10 winning stretch in the 28 games he played for the Lakers.
Still, questions about his conditioning arose during the playoffs, where he appeared less durable. The hope among fans and analysts alike is that Luka’s leaner frame will enhance his stamina and agility, allowing him to sustain an even higher level of performance. If this new version of Doncic can surpass his previous numbers, the Lakers may be better positioned than ever to challenge for the NBA title.
This physical transformation represents more than just a change in appearance for Doncic—it signals a renewed commitment to maximizing his potential with the Lakers. As the season approaches, opponents will need to prepare for what some are calling “Skinny Luka,” an improved athlete ready to push the franchise toward championship success.