Luka Doncic, the star guard for the Los Angeles Lakers, recently addressed the reasons behind his extended hiatus from basketball, revealing the challenges he faced during his time away from the court. The 25-year-old athlete, who joined the Lakers in a stunning trade from the Dallas Mavericks earlier this year, explained that stepping back from organized play was a necessary adjustment for his physical and mental conditioning.
In a candid moment during the Lakers’ Media Day at the UCLA Health Training Center, Doncic shared, “It was hard. I’m a very competitive guy; I like to play basketball. I enjoy 5-on-5, 4-on-4, 3-on-3—whatever it is. But it was hard to not practice.” Despite the difficulty, he acknowledged that the break also brought a sense of fun and allowed him to focus on his fitness without the pressures of competition.
Doncic’s decision to refrain from participating in organized practices was largely influenced by Lakers coach JJ Redick, who emphasized the need for improved conditioning and endurance after the team’s disappointing first-round playoff exit against the Minnesota Timberwolves last season. This shift in focus appears to have paid off, as Doncic not only maintained his weight but also showcased his skills on the international stage, averaging over 34 points per game for Slovenia at EuroBasket.
The transition from Dallas to Los Angeles has been significant for Doncic, especially following reports that the Mavericks were frustrated with his conditioning and off-court habits prior to his trade. Determined to prove himself in his new environment, Doncic has taken his physical transformation seriously, and the results have been promising. His appearance on the cover of Men’s Health serves as a testament to his commitment to fitness and performance.
Doncic’s partnership with LeBron James is one of the most anticipated dynamics in the NBA this season. With both players known for their exceptional court vision and ability to control the pace of the game, their collaboration has already begun to reshape expectations for the Lakers. Last season, the team boasted a 15-8 record in games where Doncic and James shared the floor, and with the addition of Deandre Ayton at center, there is optimism that the Lakers will be even stronger this year.
Reflecting on the Lakers’ roster changes, Doncic expressed his excitement about the team’s direction. “Every year, the Lakers seem to find a way to build a competitive squad. Adding players of that caliber can definitely make them a threat,” he stated. The Western Conference remains highly competitive, and the Lakers are determined to make a significant impact this season.
As the Lakers gear up for the new season, Doncic’s commitment to his fitness and his evolving partnership with James will be crucial to the team’s success. Fans can expect an exhilarating season as Doncic continues to adapt and thrive in his new role, aiming not only to enhance his individual performance but also to contribute to the Lakers’ pursuit of their first NBA championship since 2020. With high expectations and a renewed focus, Doncic is poised to make a lasting impression in Los Angeles and beyond.