Nico Harrison had several complaints about Doncic, which resulted in his trade. He didn’t appreciate his lack of devotion to fitness and some of his habits. And in recent times, Doncic’s weight issues and fitness have been a point of concern around the NBA.

But it seems he wants to shut them down once and for all.

According to Jason Gallagher, Luka Doncic is attacking the offseason with vengeance. “Luka has already begun to Clean Slate like starting new. He’s already in this mindset of changing a lot about himself,” he said on The Dumb Zone. This isn’t shocking news at all. The murmurs about Doncic making a solid effort to get in shape have been circulating for the past few years. But Gallagher made an interesting observation, which may prove that this time, he isn’t joking around anymore.

“Now I’ve heard this before – but not from specific people who have been critical of him. So I’ll say that,” he added.

Gallagher, who directs the Mind the Game podcast, hasn’t spoken to JJ Redick about Luka Doncic. However, coming from him, there is a good chance that the news isn’t just a rumour like other times. And well, the Slovenian has never had more to prove.

Reports made it clear that the Mavericks, particularly Nico Harrison, were displeased by his defensive inactivity. Those concerns showed during the NBA playoffs as the Timberwolves hunted him on defense. So there’s no doubt about Luka Doncic having the motivation to do. He is also playing with his idol, and a health freak, LeBron James, who might have influenced the same. The Lakers also made strides by hiring new fitness trainers to ensure their team’s conditioning never wanes.

Luka Doncic being touted as the future face of the franchise could be buying into the culture. That would be the logical explanation. The other side is to prove the Mavericks wrong. He was traded after taking them to the NBA Finals. Despite his ludicrous production, they heavily blamed Doncic for losing to the Boston Celtics. The message sent was clear. The Mavs didn’t think they could win with him as the cornerstone. Now, he wants to prove them wrong.

But speaking of the Mavericks, they are in paradise after landing the number one pick in the 2025 NBA draft. But still, it seems Nico Harrison and Jason Kidd are looking for more young crop they could add to their roster.

The Mavericks’ draft hunt continues

While the NBA playoffs are grabbing the major headlines, the upcoming draft is also turning heads. The Dallas Mavericks attained some retribution for trading Luka Doncic. With just 1.8% chances, they landed the top pick, with a widely coveted Cooper Flagg up for grabs.

It sounds absurd that Dallas could possibly pass on Flagg. Eventually, it may not happen, but Harrison and Jason Kidd still want to see what the enticing draft class is full of. Klutch Sports hosted their annual Pro Day at the Lakers’ facility, and they joined a number of executives to observe some of the star rookies.

The likes of Flagg’s Duke teammate Khaman Maluach, Hansen Yang, Florida’s Walter Clayton, and other Klutch rookies were all present to show off their talents. And it wasn’t just Nico Harrison and Kidd who wanted a glimpse of the talent.

Warriors’ Michael Dunleavy, Pat Riley, Rob Pelinka, and Daryl Morey were also seen closely watching the rookies. However, for those outside of the Cooper Flagg zone, it makes sense. But why are the Mavericks there?

It’s because their draft goes beyond just the number one pick. Klutch Sports Pro Day provides a unique opportunity for teams to interact with the draft prospects. Additionally, the Mavericks are a team that is looking to add depth to their roster. They might be hopeful to find another hidden gem for whom they might look to facilitate a trade.

Because, as of right now, aside from the most desirable pick, the Mavericks don’t have the option of picking in the second round. Hence, it doesn’t hurt to weigh out their options.