Luka Doncic showcased a remarkable physical transformation this offseason as he prepared for a contract extension with the Los Angeles Lakers and to represent Slovenia at EuroBasket 25. Speaking ahead of the Slovenian national team’s exhibition game against Germany, Doncic revealed that the main factor behind his improved condition was actually having more downtime.
He explained,
“I get this question all the time. I think I was a good player before, too,”
—Luka Doncic, Player.
“What drove me? Basically, we made a slightly different training plan. Well, I had a little more time. Last summer was really tiring. I played until June, then the national team, so there was no energy. This year I had more time.”
Intense 2024 Season Led to Exhaustion Before Break
During 2024, Doncic played an exhausting 92 games between the regular NBA season and the playoffs, ultimately leading the Dallas Mavericks to the NBA Finals. After that demanding stretch, he also committed to his national team’s Olympic qualifying efforts. This schedule left him worn out by the time the 2024-2025 NBA season began, which reportedly led the Mavericks’ general manager to consider trading him.
The physical toll of that year-long grind made a difference in his performance and conditioning, highlighting why having more rest during the offseason helped him recover and rebuild his fitness.
New Training Plan Includes Adjusted Workout and Diet
Doncic’s offseason transformation incorporated not only more recovery time but also a revamped training routine that emphasizes cardio and dietary changes. Despite the adjustments, he insisted that his skills remained strong even before this physical upgrade, stating again,
“I think I was a good player before too.”
This comment reflects on his consistent performance level, considering he averaged 28 points, eight rebounds, and seven assists per game last season. That season marked the first time since he won Rookie of the Year in 2019 that he did not receive All-NBA team honors, yet his value on the court remained evident.
Looking Ahead: Maintaining Peak Form for Impactful Seasons
Doncic’s focus on balancing rest with improved training sets a precedent for how elite athletes can maintain their peak performance amid demanding schedules. His upcoming seasons with the Los Angeles Lakers and Slovenia’s national team will be closely watched to see how this commitment to physical health translates to his gameplay.
With his GM already interested in him as a key figure and his fans optimistic, Doncic’s approach to fitness could influence training plans for NBA players facing similar endurance challenges.