'Revenge season loading' – Luka Doncic's slimmed-down frame in viral video sparks fear and awe
Is it a revenge? The Dallas Mavericks' bidding farewell to Doncic was reportedly centered around the fitness of the Slovenian star. Now, he is in a new, astounding look that has been raising eyebrows. In a recent practice session, Doncic appeared, again, skinny as he dunked a ball with his usual charisma.
Luka Doncic's lean new look in a practice clip has been the talk of the town
A recent practice video of the Los Angeles Lakers star went viral for all the right reasons. The 26-year-old looked lean, energized, and completely locked in.
After years of conditioning questions, Doncic is rewriting the narrative this offseason, showing up noticeably fitter and igniting a fresh wave of anticipation across the league.
— LegionHoops (@LegionHoops)
After a disappointing first-round playoff exit at the hands of the Minnesota Timberwolves, Lakers head coach JJ Redick issued a challenge to his roster: get in 'championship shape.' It appears Luka Doncic took that message personally—and seriously.
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Just four days after the season ended, Doncic flew back to his hometown of Ljubljana, Slovenia. Instead of diving straight into basketball, he focused entirely on his body.
Doncic started guided conditioning sessions in the gym and followed a revised diet plan. The results were quickly noticeable. A recent side-by-side comparison of Doncic from early June to now shocked fans, with the new, shredded version of Luka earning him the viral nickname 'Skinny Luka.'
One source told The Athletic, 'Doncic has been incredibly committed to his conditioning this offseason. He's dropped significant weight and is working on strict diet and cardio training.' Reports confirm that Luka eliminated fried foods and late-night snacks from his routine, opting for lean proteins, whole grains, and fresh vegetables instead. Long runs and intense workouts have taken the place of relaxed offseason habits.
The fearsome form fans caught on video wasn't a fluke—it's the product of disciplined transformation. A leaner Luka not only improves his stamina and mobility but also addresses the one critique that has followed him his entire career: conditioning.
Los Angeles Lakers are betting big on Luka Doncic 2.0
Despite his elite production— averaging 28.6 points, 8.6 rebounds, and 8.2 assists over seven NBA seasons— Doncic 's fitness has often been labeled a weak link. During the 2024 playoffs, he averaged over 41 minutes per game, leading all players, but still faced criticism for appearing gassed.
Redick's pointed comment about 'championship shape' was widely interpreted as being aimed at Luka.
Fans online also shared their thoughts on Doncic's stunning transformation.
'Revenge season loading,' Summer Sarah wrote on X.
'Man oh man!!! WE READY,' Kobe_Wan_Kenobi wrote.
Zoey wrote, 'Man's starting to look like rookie year him again 👀 Can't wait to see what he's cooking next season.'
Fans react to Luka Doncic's transformation. Image via: X
Also Read:
Kyrie Irving admitted he watched his former teammate Luka Doncic torch the court with a 24-point blitz in just 180 seconds
Now, with the Lakers reportedly preparing a $230 million max extension, it's clear they believe in this new version.
A leaner, faster Doncic could be the missing piece in their pursuit of a final title run with LeBron James. If Luka shows up in peak shape for EuroBasket and beyond, as many now expect, the league could be in for a nightmare scenario.
FAQs
Why is Luka Doncic going viral right now?
A recent video showed a noticeably leaner Doncic during practice, sparking awe and buzz across social media.
What changes has Doncic made this offseason?
He's focused on cardio, strength, and a clean diet, dropping significant weight in just a few months.
Is Luka Doncic expected to sign an extension with the Lakers?
Yes, reports suggest a $230 million extension could be on the table this August.
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