Luka Doncic, Lakers
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Luka Doncic of the Los Angeles Lakers.
Los Angeles Lakers star guard Luka Doncic seems more determined than ever to prove his naysayers wrong, especially after his team’s 4-1 playoff series loss to the Minnesota Timberwolves. In light of the criticism, the Slovenian embraced a new offseason regimen this summer, including new workout techniques, intermittent fasting, and a new diet, to improve his conditioning levels.
Doncic’s determination to prove his critics wrong has caught the attention of an anonymous NBA scout, who watched Slovenia play Germany at a friendly game ahead of the upcoming FIBA EuroBasket 2025. Upon watching Doncic in action, the exec was floored, propelling him to make a bold prediction for the 2025-26 NBA season.
“Man, he looks incredible,” the scout told DallasHoopsJournal.com.
“He’s quicker and more explosive. He’s getting by people more easily. I think he’s on a mission. I think he’s gonna win MVP and the scoring title next season. He wants to get revenge on Dallas for basically fat-shaming him.”
Luka Doncic MVP Season Incoming?
The anonymous scout isn’t the only one predicting Doncic to capture the MVP award and the scoring title next season.
ESPN analyst Kendrick Perkins is also convinced that the Lakers star will capture his first Michael Jordan Trophy in the 2025-26 NBA season.
“Luka and the Los Angeles Lakers, they broke through the internet today because they’re one,” Perkins told the “Road Trippin’ podcast.
“They’re one now. You see them? We ain’t looking at the chubby, fat Luka, the beer-sipping Luka, or medium Luka. We looking at skinny Luka. I saw his jawline. I saw veins popping out of his ears. The man is in shape. and it’s going to be a problem this year for the rest of the league.”
Doncic, New Face of the Lakers
This offseason, Doncic solidified himself as the new face of the Lakers by inking a three-year, $165 million extension. Furthermore, he played a critical role in recruiting DeAndre Ayton and Marcus Smart, the Lakers’ high-profile free agency additions.
Many analysts believe Doncic has shown that he’s determined to the Lakers franchise for the foreseeable future.
“I’m really grateful to the Lakers organization, my teammates and the fans for welcoming me and my family with so much support and kindness since day one,” the Slovenian star said after signing his extension. “This is an amazing organization, and I truly believe in what we’re building together.
“I’m going to keep working as hard as I can to bring another championship to Los Angeles and to make Laker Nation proud. This is just the beginning. I’m excited for what’s ahead and to keep building something special with this team.”
According to Slovenian media outlets, Doncic lost 31 pounds in the 2025 offseason. Before his EuroBasket warm up game on August 8, Doncic spoke candidly of his new physique.
“I still feel a bit jet-lagged, but I think it will pass soon,” Doncic said, leading to the exhibition game. “I probably won’t play the whole game, but I think there will be enough minutes. Depends on how my body feels. I haven’t played 5 on 5 in a long time. It’s a completely different rhythm. But I feel good.”