Reports have made the picture quite clear. The Dallas Mavericks had concerns with Luka Doncic’s conditioning and habits. Several stories about the same emerged. But what exactly was the problem if Luka Magic could still unfold all his tricks with those? How extreme could it have been that the Mavericks traded for Anthony Davis who only enjoyed a healthy season last year? Some answers are beginning to emerge which may shock you.

According to The Athletic, there were two habits of Luka Doncic which suggested a lack of discipline. The Mavericks didn’t like him regularly smoking hookah and his temptations to have beer from time to time. Nico Harrison in particular is big on having a fit team who don’t compromise their ability to stay healthy.

But with these habits, the Mavericks apparently project Luka Doncic’s career taking a dive soon. “They mention the social habits that The Athletic has reported on — such as a taste for beer and hookah — which have been a point of concern for NBA types since he was a 19-year-old star for Real Madrid who was entering the NBA Draft. They predict his basketball demise, highlighting a health history that, as some see it, will likely lead to catastrophe in the next five years or so,” The Athletic reports.

Within the team itself, some even proclaim the 25-year-old is “lazy” suggesting that factors into the apparent weight issues which forced the Mavericks to pull the plug. It might be viewed as a contentious decision either way. But as far as the Mavericks are concerned, this is a decision that helps set the culture within an organization.

Does that justify trading Luka Doncic, the cornerstone of the franchise away? Probably not. It seems that Mark Cuban didn’t want to do so as he happily greeted Doncic’s agent and his family during the game against the Lakers today. The Mavericks could have arguably handled the situation better considering how young Doncic is. In addition, his seismic impact was a pivotal reason behind their reemergence into contending talks.

Yet, the move also sends a message to the team. There is no place for habits that are detrimental to a player’s health. Hopefully, for the Lakers, they can find ways to motivate Luka Doncic.

A bright path for Luka Doncic with the Lakers?

With the Mavericks, coming in as a rookie, Doncic didn’t have a particular order to follow. He respected the veterans. However, since his first day, the keys stayed with him. Until last season, that seemed to be an excellent choice with the Slovenian guard battling for the Mavs even though multiple injuries.

But now the rhythm has changed. Doncic suffered his first major injury which may have worried the Mavericks’ top brass into it becoming a pattern.

Yet in his short time with the Lakers, it seems the number-one priority over anything for Luka Doncic is to play winning basketball. In order to be successful on the court, he’s already made heavy adjustments. JJ Redick claims he is now fully committed to the organization and their mission.

Aside from the incentive of playing for the Lakers, Doncic gets another advantage. That is LeBron James. Growing up, the 25-year-old idolized him and based his game around the way the Akron Hammer plays. If there is anybody who is adept at ensuring they remain in top condition, it’s James.

Obviously, it’s not certain that Doncic will lean into those habits and instantly transform himself. However, the issue isn’t him enjoying an occasional beer. As per the tonality of the report, the need for control jumps out. And observing James’ work ethic and its subsequent effect on the court could be the best motivation for Luka Doncic at this stage of his career.

From his perspective, Doncic doesn’t want to play as long as LeBron James. However, when he is out on the floor, he wants to be a perennial stud. Studying and having the mentorship of his role model could bode incredibly well for the Purple and Gold. Additionally, Rob Pelinka has also assured that Doncic is working with the Lakers’ medical team to find ways to limit his ailments.

Such a course of action points towards positive results. But ultimately, it also comes down to how willing Luka Doncic is to such a change. If his health concerns are as serious as the Mavericks perceive, major amendments are necessary.