Luka Doncic’s remarkable body transformation has become one of the most talked-about narratives in the NBA this offseason, captivating fans and analysts alike. As the Slovenian superstar prepares to showcase his revamped physique at the upcoming Eurobasket 2025, the anticipation surrounding his performance is palpable. However, despite the visible changes, Los Angeles Lakers assistant coach Greg St. Jean has candidly admitted that Doncic’s journey is still unfolding, emphasizing that he is “still a work in progress.”
In an insightful conversation with BasketNews, St. Jean revealed, “I think the summer’s not over yet. And he’s going to continue to get better.” This statement underscores the commitment Doncic is making to enhance his game. As he gears up for competitive play, St. Jean notes that Doncic has been engaging in rigorous training and is now transitioning into five-on-five competition. “His game last week was the first time he’s played five-on-five in a long time,” St. Jean added, indicating that fans will witness continued improvement as the tournament progresses and as Doncic prepares for the Lakers’ upcoming season.
The stakes are undeniably high for Doncic, especially given the concerns that surfaced regarding his commitment to fitness, which played a significant role in his surprising trade from the Dallas Mavericks. At the time of the deal, Doncic was recovering from a calf injury and returned to the court looking out of shape, raising eyebrows among fans and analysts. His performance with the Lakers, where he averaged an impressive 28.2 points, 8.1 rebounds, and 7.5 assists over 28 games, still revealed vulnerabilities, particularly in his shooting percentage, which dipped to 43.8—the lowest since his rookie year. His defensive struggles were also glaring, especially during the Lakers’ early playoff exit against the Minnesota Timberwolves.
Now, as LeBron James embarks on his age-41 season, the Lakers have entrusted Doncic with the franchise’s future, signing him to a staggering three-year, $165 million contract extension that secures his place in Los Angeles through at least 2028. The pressure is mounting for Doncic to not only perform at an elite level but to also embrace the responsibilities that come with being the face of one of the NBA’s most illustrious franchises.
St. Jean expressed confidence in Doncic’s dedication, stating, “I think he’s done a fantastic job working hard the entire summer.” This optimism is crucial as the Lakers look to Doncic to carry a significant workload and play heavy minutes on the court. The assistant coach highlighted the importance of Doncic’s conditioning, saying, “That’s going to be important for him as he continues to improve.”
With all eyes on Doncic, the upcoming season promises to be a pivotal one as he strives to elevate his game and meet the expectations that come with his new role. The journey has only just begun, and fans are eager to see how this evolving narrative unfolds on the hardwood.
