Recent photos of Luka Doncic have ignited a conversation about his physique, with some fans expressing concern that the Dallas Mavericks star has become “too slim” as he prepares for the 2025/26 NBA season. At just 26 years old, Doncic has found himself defending his weight, a stark contrast to previous discussions about his conditioning.
During the 2025 NBA Playoffs, critics focused on Doncic’s weight and defensive performance, particularly following the Los Angeles Lakers’ first-round exit to the Minnesota Timberwolves. This scrutiny reportedly influenced the Mavericks’ decision to part ways with him, raising questions about his fitness and readiness for the upcoming season.
Despite the chatter, Doncic remains confident in his physical condition. He insists he is in the best shape of his life and is fully prepared for the challenges ahead, especially as he aims to help the Lakers secure an NBA championship at the Crypto.com Arena for the first time since 2020.
In preparation for the new season, Doncic has altered his offseason regimen significantly. His training has expanded beyond traditional basketball drills to include racquet sports, which enhance his agility. He has also focused on overall conditioning rather than just basketball skills, adhering to a stricter training plan than in previous years.
“I know how much basketball means to me. It has given me a lot in my life,” Doncic remarked in an interview with Slovenia’s Svet24. “But I also like to play other sports. The first three or four days were hard for me without basketball, but then I just got used to it.”
The results of his dedication are evident; Doncic appears noticeably leaner, particularly around his face, after sharing photos on social media. While many fans have praised his transformation, others have voiced concerns that his weight loss might have come at the expense of muscle mass. Comments on social media have ranged from, “Aight, he looks a little too slim?” to, “I saw this picture and thought it was photoshopped.” One fan even noted, “No. He didn’t lose muscle mass with this. Man was 80% pudge last year.”
In addition to his physical transformation, Doncic has secured a significant financial commitment from the Lakers, signing a three-year, $165 million contract extension. The franchise is banking on his improved conditioning to yield consistent, elite-level performances throughout the regular season and playoffs, creating a powerful partnership with LeBron James.
As the new season approaches, Doncic is also preparing to represent Slovenia in EuroBasket, with a warm-up game against Germany scheduled for August 8. His commitment to fitness and performance will be crucial as he aims to lead his team to success in both international and NBA competitions.
With the start of the season on the horizon, fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see how Doncic’s transformation impacts his game and the Lakers’ prospects for the upcoming season.