Luka Doncic believes he’s in the best shape of his NBA career after a transformative offseason in Croatia.
Speaking to Men’s Health Magazine in a feature published Monday, the Los Angeles Lakers star said his “whole body looks better” following two months of strict training and a major shift in his diet and routine.
Doncic adopted a gluten-free, low-sugar diet with intermittent fasting and high protein intake—at least 250 grams a day. Combined with a basketball-free month and a demanding physical programme, the results have been visibly striking, according to photos and comments in the report.
“Just visually, I would say my whole body looks better,” said Doncic, who has faced criticism over his conditioning throughout his seven-year NBA career.
The 26-year-old endured a difficult 2024–25 season, including a midseason trade from the Dallas Mavericks to the Lakers and a lingering calf injury that limited him to just 50 games. The Lakers were knocked out in the first round by the Minnesota Timberwolves.
According to ESPN’s Bobby Marks, Doncic becomes eligible on 2 August for a four-year, $222 million extension. He has two years left on his current deal, including a player option for 2026–27.
Doncic reportedly contacted his team the day after the Lakers’ playoff exit to start his offseason programme. Inspired by Kobe Bryant and Michael Jordan, he said this summer was different.
“This is just the start,” Doncic said. “I need to keep going. Can’t stop.”
Photo: New York Yankees/Getty Images
