Lakers star Luka Doncic, frequently criticized in past years for his conditioning and workout habits, has revealed a demanding offseason training regimen aimed at improving his physical form. His dedicated preparation, covered in detail by Men’s Health magazine, highlights the work he has pursued since the conclusion of the recent <a href=”https://www.buzzineintl.com/category/basketball/nba/”>NBA season to enhance his strength and stamina.
Men’s Health not only featured Doncic on its latest cover but also released multiple articles focusing on his strict summer workout routine and his adherence to a gluten-free, low-sugar diet. These efforts demonstrate a clear commitment to refining his body after Lakers’ playoff elimination.
Starting Intensive Preparation Immediately After Playoffs
According to Andrew Heffernan and Ebenezer Samuel of Men’s Health, Doncic informed his manager, Lara Beth Seager, the day following the Lakers’ playoff exit that he wanted to prioritize his body transformation without delay. After taking a month-long break from basketball activities, he resumed intense training.
Every summer I try my best to work on different things,
said Doncic.
Obviously, I’m very competitive. This summer was just a little bit different, you know. It kind of motivated me to be even better.
—Luka Doncic, Lakers star guard
Long-Term Focus on Physical Improvement
Journalist Dan Woike of The Athletic notes that Doncic had been collaborating with trainer Anže Maček and physiotherapist Javier Barrio since 2023. Therefore, his decision to adopt a stricter training approach was a gradual process rather than an impulsive change. Sources close to Doncic believe this physical evolution would have occurred regardless of his trade from Dallas to Los Angeles.
However, calf injuries during last season and critiques from the Mavericks concerning his conditioning and work ethic contributed to his renewed determination. The Lakers’ decision to acquire him intensified his desire to prove his commitment physically. Recent images shared by Men’s Health display a noticeably leaner and more toned version of the five-time All-Star.
Just visually, I would say my whole body looks better,
Doncic admitted.
Balancing Offseason Business and Training Across Continents
Having spent much of the offseason in Europe, Doncic has returned to the United States this week to fulfill promotional responsibilities for Jordan Brand. Following his engagements in New York City, he is scheduled to visit Chicago and then Los Angeles.
Woike suggests that Doncic’s arrival in Los Angeles coincides with August 2, the date when restrictions on his contract extension eligibility are lifted. This timing may facilitate negotiations, allowing Doncic to sign an extension with the Lakers sooner than previously anticipated.
Upcoming Contract Extension and EuroBasket Preparation
While the expectation of a contract extension has persisted for some time, speculation had indicated that such a deal might wait until after Doncic’s commitments with the Slovenian national team concluded. Now, an agreement appears achievable before his return overseas for the upcoming EuroBasket tournament.
Doncic’s ongoing commitment to this stringent offseason training is designed to ensure lasting improvements in both his personal performance and his contributions to the Lakers and his national squad this year.
This year, with my team, I think we did a huge step,
he remarked.
But this is just the start, you know. I need to keep going. Can’t stop.
—Luka Doncic, Lakers star guard