Sept. 24, 2026, 5:03 a.m. PT
When he was traded to the Los Angeles Lakers in February 2025, Luka Doncic received criticism for his lack of fitness and conditioning, and some likely wondered if he had the requisite commitment to his craft in order to win his first NBA championship. But last summer, he dropped extra weight and got into excellent shape, and he has apparently done the same exact thing this offseason.
Since coming to the team, he has let it be known publicly that his big goal is to win the NBA title. In fact, last summer, he said he wants to be known as “the guy who brought championships” to Los Angeles.
In an essay he wrote for a new authorized history of the Lakers franchise, Doncic reiterated how much he wants to win it all as a member of the Purple and Gold.
“I’m a Laker now. I’m not sure that I ever could have imagined being here and wearing the purple and gold. It’s a wonderful surprise and it feels amazing and now I desperately want what all Lakers want: To win it all. I won’t rest until we win more championships…
“I used to let my game do most of the talking, but I want Lakers fans to know that I am ready, excited, and eager to deliver. So ready. This is a city that is used to winning and winning big. I am so honored and grateful that I get the chance now to write my own championship chapters.”
Last season, Doncic averaged 33.5 points, 7.7 rebounds, 8.3 assists and 1.6 steals a game. He won his second scoring title, got a bit of MVP consideration and even improved his defense. But in the end, it was a disappointing season.
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After the Lakers won 16 of 18 games in late February and March, Doncic suffered a season-ending hamstring strain on April 2 and could only watch as they got swept in the second round of the playoffs by the Oklahoma City Thunder. He has fully recovered from that injury, and with LeBron James gone, he has started to assert his leadership.
He held a minicamp for his teammates in his native Slovenia in August that included plenty of fun team-bonding activities. There is a feeling that Doncic could have an even more impressive season once training camp starts next week.