Remember that trade back in February that took the NBA world by storm? Yeah, the Luka Doncic to the Los Angeles Lakers move. While the trade itself took everyone by surprise, including the Slovenian star, one of the reported reasons only added to that shock. Per some trusted insiders for the Dallas Maverick, the reason for Luka’s trade was not defense, as Nico Harrison & Co. reasoned, but fitness and conditioning of the point guard. Reportedly, he had also gained as much as 25 lbs over the years since he was drafted in 2018.

ESPN’s Tim MacMahon reported that Doncic’s “weight ballooned into the high 260s this season” (although his listed weight is 230 lbs) as he entered the West Coast. So, as the summer vacation started early for JJ Redick’s Lakers, Doncic knew the work that was cut out for him.

Just last week, we got a sneak peek into his workout sessions as the 26-year-old did a heavy 88 lbs barbell single-leg deadlift. We could even see some cuts in his triceps in the photo. And then came the confirmation at the hands of none other than his fiancée, Anamaria Goltes. She shared a story on her Instagram, showing a home-prepped meal for the basketball icon. Clearly, Luka has grasped that it’s his habits that would make the difference in his game, where we mostly saw him exhaust rather quickly, probably because of the weight gain. And seems like the fresh balanced diet and grind at the gym combo is working more than well for him as he made a recent appearance, and fans cannot help but get hyped!

The difference wasn’t visible until Sunday, when Doncic was courtside watching his former team, Real Madrid, compete against Coviran Granada with Real Madrid president, Florentino Perez. As the video went viral for the Lakers star, who is currently waiting for EuroBasket 2025 where he will suit up for his country, Slovenia.

However, it is important to note that despite the shocking trade and having to build connections on the court with his new teammates, Luka was still able to match his numbers for the Lakers, yielding 28.2 points, 8.2 rebounds, and 7.7 assists per game. Imagine what increased speed and agility could do the next season because there was a visible difference in Luka’s appearance as his wife’s special diet and his efforts seem to be yielding spectacular results. This had the fans going bonkers as they set out a stern warning to the rest of the league.

LA fans left stunned after Luka Doncic pictures emerge

The LA head coach, JJ Redick, clearly set out a notice to get his players in better shape for the title contention and Luka, for one, is listening. It seems like Doncic has been working on his body and has a point to prove next season, both to the Lakers fans and his former team that reportedly traded him over his weight. Luka Doncic’s latest pictures have sent fans into a frenzy, with many unable to believe his transformation and many applauding it. But first came the warning.

“The league is trouble next season, Luka lookin slim asf.” A fan pointed out. Indeed, the LA star gave fans flashbacks of his early days in Dallas, where he was a fit youngster. Of course, can you imagine if the superstar gains more speed and endurance to match his offense? No doubt the Lakers would be heavily liked for title contention. And the fans being surprised didn’t end with just a warning.

“Luka looking slim 👀” one fan wrote. Meanwhile, another user commented, “No beer belly,” taking a friendly shot at the Slovenian superstar.

And it’s truly unbelievable to get this fit in such a short period of time. Moreover, the great shape will only help him as he returns to his homeland to represent his country in this year’s European Championship to be held in Poland.

We are all aware of how much of a debate his weight became, especially after his move to Southern California in February. Now, Doncic may have completely shut his critics with his latest appearance. “Luka Doncic, less than a month after the season ended. Looks good.” Another user stated.

Another fan bestowed a new nickname on the former-Madrid star. “LUKA DONCIC aka Slim Doncic.” He stated after watching him courtside in Real Madrid’s latest matchup. It’s great seeing fans appreciate Luka Doncic’s efforts during the offseason. Especially after he was given a lot of stick for his shape as the Lakers crashed out of the postseason earlier than expected.

However, there’s still a long way to go for the Lakers’ point guard, and it will be interesting to see how he and the Lakers fare next season.