Luka Doncic’s offseason dedication to transforming his physique has become a focal point of discussions, especially as he prepares to lead Slovenia in EuroBasket. His commitment to getting into peak shape is driven by a desire to return to the NBA healthier and stronger, aiming to help the Los Angeles Lakers regain championship contention. This remarkable fitness change is capturing attention across the basketball world.
LeBron James’ Future with the Lakers Faces Growing Uncertainty
LeBron James, who has been with the Lakers since 2018 and secured an NBA title with the team, is now at a crossroads. At 40 years old, speculation about the twilight of his career is intensifying. Although LeBron recently opted into a $52 million player contract, the question remains whether he will continue with the Lakers or step aside. The impressive progress shown by Doncic adds urgency to this debate about who the Lakers’ future should be built around.
Austin Rivers Advocates for a Shift Toward Building Around Doncic
Basketball analyst Austin Rivers recently expressed his strong opinion on this matter during his appearance on the Off Guard podcast. Highlighting Luka’s unprecedented physical condition, Rivers stated,
“This might be the best Luka we’ve ever seen,”
and added,
“If I’m the Lakers, man, I’m building around Luka. I would try to move LeBron.”
Rivers acknowledges LeBron’s legendary status but argues that the Lakers’ offense struggles to maximize Luka’s talents with LeBron commanding so much of the ball.
Distinct from Previous Seasons, Doncic’s Fitness Is More Than Temporary
While Doncic has previously lost weight during the summer only to return heavier in the NBA season, this year’s effort is seen as genuinely different. Rivers emphasized the significance of this transformation by saying,
“Luka looks great, and this is real. This isn’t like the summers before; this isn’t like what we’ve done with Ben Simmons. He [Doncic] looks great. We want the best version of Luka, we want Luka to come back tenfold.”
His recent Men’s Health magazine cover is further proof of this newfound physical discipline, especially after months of criticism over his weight.
The Delicate Balance Between Two Superstars on the Lakers
Despite Rivers’ comments, there is recognition that LeBron James has been considering handing over the leadership reins for a few years. Luka Doncic represents the ideal successor to take charge of the Lakers’ future. Their ability to collaborate was on display last season, even if the team’s playoff run ended earlier than hoped. Still, how the Lakers choose to manage the dynamic between their veteran star and rising talent will define their direction.
Implications for the Lakers’ Path Forward
The Lakers face a crucial decision regarding whether to continue investing in LeBron James’ final seasons or pivot fully toward Luka Doncic as their franchise cornerstone. Austin Rivers’ perspective highlights a growing consensus that the team might benefit more from building around the younger star, especially given his renewed physical readiness and potential for an MVP-level season. This offseason’s choices will significantly impact the Lakers’ competitiveness and strategy moving into upcoming NBA campaigns.