As August approaches, the NBA enters a phase often dubbed "muscle watch" season, where player conditioning and physique become hot topics of discussion. Recently, Luka Dončić has garnered attention, particularly through a feature in Men's Health that has sparked significant dialogue. Following a challenging stint with the Los Angeles Lakers, Dončić appears to have made considerable strides in his fitness, presenting a leaner physique reminiscent of his earlier playing days, particularly from his rookie season in 2018-19.

New insights into Dončić's training regimen reveal a robust commitment to both workouts and nutrition. He is reportedly engaging in two-a-day training sessions in Croatia that combine weightlifting, agility drills, and shooting practices. Additionally, his dietary approach includes a gluten-free, low-sugar plan, featuring at least 250 grams of protein each day alongside an almond milk-based shake. These changes have become particularly evident following his abbreviated 2023-24 campaign, which concluded in April, setting the stage for what could be a transformative season for the young star.

The stakes are high as Luka Dončić prepares to compete in EuroBasket representing Slovenia, with an eye on the upcoming 2025-26 NBA season. His impressive box plus/minus (BPM) metric, which quantifies a player’s impact on the game while on the court, indicates that anything above 8.0 signifies an MVP-level season. Dončić has exceeded this mark in four of his first seven NBA seasons, achieving a career-best BPM of 9.9 in 2023-24. Despite his scoring prowess—an average of 33.9 points per game last season—he has yet to clinch an MVP award, often overshadowed by contemporaries like Nikola Jokić.

The Dallas Mavericks’ decision to move Dončić, coupled with the team’s public commentary on his fitness, has raised questions about the implications of such statements. Should he return with enhanced explosiveness while maintaining the refined skills developed throughout his career, fans may witness a season of unparalleled dominance from him. His remarkable averages last season included nearly 10 assists, 9 rebounds, and notable shooting percentages, all while leading the Mavericks to the NBA Finals as a 24-year-old.

However, injuries in the 2024-25 season created setbacks for Dončić, and a shocking trade involving a move to the Lakers created further uncertainty regarding his future with the Mavericks. The transaction, which saw an all-time offensive talent traded for an aging player struggles with injuries—Anthony Davis—and limited draft capital, may have unintended consequences. Should he channel the motivation from this unexpected shift, there is potential for Dončić to cement his legacy as one of the league's premier talents.

Achieving Dončić's level of play requires monumental skill; his average of 30 points, 8.8 rebounds, and 8.7 assists over six seasons underlines this. While exceptional talent does not guarantee MVP accolades or championships, challenges can often propel athletes to new heights. Notable examples in the past include Michael Jordan’s battles with the Detroit Pistons, the competitive rivalry between Larry Bird and Magic Johnson, and LeBron James’ eventual breakthrough following early career setbacks. For Dončić, the events of the last year—including a Finals defeat and the unexpected trade—may serve as catalysts for his growth, potentially positioning him for his first MVP award.