There are players who change games. Then there are players who change mindsets.
Luka Doncic showing up in the best shape of his career is not just another regular headline; it is the talk of the Los Angeles Lakers’ offseason. If you ask assistant coach Greg St. Jean, there is one person who deserves a lot of credit for being able to do both: LeBron James.
LeBron’s influence may have unlocked Doncic’s next level
This summer, Doncic did not just train harder; he changed how he approaches the game. The workouts, the diet, the commitment to his body, all of it took a step forward. Being around LeBron every day played a big role in that shift.
“You know what? I always find this — iron sharpens iron,” St. Jean told BasketNews. “When you’re around really good players, it’s just like when you’re a coach, and you’re around a really good coach. You can’t help but be motivated to continue to get better at your craft.”
Doncic has always looked up to James, and now that they are teammates, he is seeing the work firsthand and matching the energy.
“I think Luka’s learned a little bit from every great player he’s been around,” St. Jean said. “And I know he’s always looked up to LeBron. ... So I think having those two together is obviously motivating. I think it’s two-way motivating as well. I don’t think it’s just a one-way street.”
Last postseason against the Minnesota Timberwolves, Doncic’s conditioning was a clear problem. He looked worn out at times, especially on defense, and it was blatantly obvious that something needed to change.
Now? He is much quicker on his feet, more active, and showing a different level of focus.
LeBron, even at 40 years old, is still the blueprint. 22 seasons in, and he is not just still playing, he is still producing at a high level. Just look at what he did last season: finished sixth in MVP voting and earned yet another all-star nod.
That kind of longevity does not happen by accident. It comes from daily discipline, and Doncic sees what that looks like up close. For the Lakers, that is a win before the season even starts.
They will not just have a superstar next season, they will have one who has unlocked a new version of himself. The best part about that is that version might be the one that finally takes Doncic from generational talent to all-time great.