Luka Dončić Drops 30 Pounds, Prepares for Lakers’ Challenge

In a significant transformation ahead of the upcoming NBA season, Luka Dončić of the Los Angeles Lakers has shed 30 pounds since last summer, bringing his weight down to 200 pounds, as reported by hoopswire.com. The Slovenian superstar is currently showcasing his skills for the Slovenian national team at EuroBasket, where his fitness level will be crucial for both team performance and his individual game.

Sources indicate that Dončić’s weight loss is attributed to a disciplined regimen that includes a gluten-free, low-sugar diet, alongside an intermittent fasting plan. This approach is designed not only to reduce inflammation but also to enhance recovery, vital for a player who is often the centerpiece of his team’s strategy. As noted by Men’s Health, these dietary choices reflect a commitment to improving his physical condition, which could significantly impact his game.

This offseason has been a pivotal one for Dončić, who inked a lucrative three-year, $165 million extension with the Lakers. At just 26 years of age, he is already a five-time All-Star and has made his mark as one of the league’s elite players. His leadership was further emphasized this summer when he played a key role in recruiting fellow players Deandre Ayton and Marcus Smart to join him in Los Angeles, solidifying the Lakers’ roster as they aim for a championship run.

Last season was a rollercoaster for Dončić, who was traded to the Lakers from the Dallas Mavericks in February. During his time with Los Angeles, he played in 28 games, averaging an impressive 28.2 points, 8.1 rebounds, and 7.5 assists per game. His shooting percentages reflected his offensive prowess, hitting 43.8% from the field, 37.9% from three-point range, and 79.1% from the free-throw line.

In the 2025 playoffs, despite his stellar performance—where he averaged 30.2 points, 7.0 rebounds, and 5.8 assists per game—the Lakers fell to the Minnesota Timberwolves in a disappointing first-round exit, losing the series in five games. This setback has fueled the urgency for improvement heading into the next season, with Dončić’s commitment to fitness being a pivotal factor in the Lakers’ quest for redemption.

As he prepares for the upcoming season, Dončić’s career averages stand at a remarkable 28.6 points, 8.6 rebounds, and 8.2 assists per game, a testament to his talent and hard work. With the changes he’s made, both in terms of physical conditioning and team dynamics, the league will be watching closely to see how this retooled version of Luka Dončić impacts the Lakers’ aspirations for a championship.