Los Angeles Lakers superstar Luka Doncic showed off his impressive defensive improvements with a perimeter block just seconds into Slovenia’s opening game of EuroBasket 2025. Fans have regularly seen the five-time All-Star get blown by in those situations, but his body transformation has made Luka a bit quicker and lighter on his feet. The fruits are already on display, and mitigating his biggest weakness makes number 77 arguably the best player on the planet.
Fans know Luka is going to get buckets and put up monster numbers, but his defense has always been questionable. Doncic has the size, but teams often pick on him. He struggles defending in space and providing consistent effort on this end of the floor. It was a problem in the playoffs and helped motivate him to get into the best shape of his life.
Luka is already seeing the rewards of his labor. He had two first-quarter blocks in Slovenia’s EuroBasket opener against Poland and looks competent on this end of the floor. Doncic has no weakness if he becomes a league-average defender, which should have Lakers fans licking their chops.
Luka Doncic wasted no time proving he’s reached new heights
The 26-year-old led the NBA in scoring in 2024 and has made five first-team All-NBA selections in seven seasons. He likely would have made it six if he played enough games last season. Luka is already one of the five best players in the world, but his new body could vault him to number one.
If nothing else, it will give more energy to compete on this end of the floor. Doncic is strong and tough to score over in the post. It is quicker guards who dominate him on the perimeter. Even the small gains in quickness here will matter significantly. The addition of Deandre Ayton to protect the backline will also help.
Luka is a fiercely loyal. Look no further than him playing on this Slovenia squad that doesn’t feature another NBA player. He wants to win for his country and his team. Doncic is now committed to the Lakers, and fans should be ecstatic. He already got in the best shape of his life and is ready to take his game to another level. Fans are already seeing it, and the rest of the NBA should be terrified.
The Los Angeles Lakers want to build a championship team around Luka Doncic. He has already proven he can be the centerpiece of a finals team. Expect him to reach new heights in his first full season in LA. The proof is already on display for those watching.