As August approaches, the NBA enters an important phase commonly referred to as 'muscle watch' season. Recently, Luka Dončić has captivated attention, partly through a feature in Men's Health, sparking renewed interest and commentary around his physique and fitness. Following a tumultuous period filled with scrutiny after his trade to the Los Angeles Lakers, Dončić appears to have undergone a significant transformation, appearing as fit as he has since his rookie season in 2018-19. His dedication to both workout routines and nutritional habits has become increasingly evident.

Reports indicate that Dončić has been engaging in rigorous two-a-day training sessions based in Croatia, which incorporate weightlifting, agility drills, and shooting practice. He also adheres to a gluten-free, low-sugar diet, reportedly consuming at least 250 grams of protein and one almond milk-based shake daily. The changes in his physical condition are notable, particularly in light of his previous season with the Lakers, which concluded in April. If he can sustain this level of fitness and performance through EuroBasket—where he will compete for Slovenia—and into the upcoming 2025-26 NBA campaign, there is a strong possibility that he could capture his first MVP award.

Statistical analysis reveals that Dončić’s box plus/minus (BPM) has consistently positioned him among the elite in the league, achieving over an 8.0 BPM in four of his seven NBA seasons, with a career-high of 9.9 BPM in 2023-24. Despite these impressive numbers, he has yet to finish higher than third in MVP voting, with the persistent presence of Nikola Jokić as a rival for the accolade. Challenges including injuries and perceptions of his commitment to fitness have contributed to the Dallas Mavericks' decision to trade him, framing their choice as a step towards a more defensively focused team structure. However, this move may serve to ignite Dončić's competitive spirit, pushing him to demonstrate his elite skills more vocally than ever.

Luka Dončić's illustrious statistical track record—averaging 30.0 points, 8.8 rebounds, and 8.7 assists since the start of the 2019-20 season—underscores the extraordinary talent he possesses. Yet, achieving individual accolades such as MVPs often hinges on overcoming adversity. Historical examples from the NBA highlight this theme: Michael Jordan had to confront the formidable Detroit Pistons, while LeBron James faced setbacks before ultimately claiming his first championship. For Dončić, the past 12 months—which encompass a Finals loss to the Boston Celtics, the surprising trade to Los Angeles, and the Mavericks' attempts to justify that decision—could ultimately refine him and propel him toward achieving the MVP recognition that has thus far eluded him.