As August approaches, the NBA enters a notable period often referred to as 'muscle watch' season. Recently, Luka Dončić has captured attention, particularly following a profile with Men's Health that has ignited discussion among fans and analysts alike. After facing scrutiny regarding his physique, especially following his trade to the Los Angeles Lakers, Dončić appears to have undergone a significant transformation, showcasing a fitness level reminiscent of his rookie campaign during the 2018-19 season.

Luka Dončić's workout regimen and dietary changes have played a crucial role in this transformation. He has committed to a rigorous training schedule in Croatia, which includes two-a-day workouts that combine weight lifting, agility drills, and shooting exercises. Notably, his diet has been adjusted to a gluten-free and low-sugar plan, incorporating approximately 250 grams of protein daily, alongside a shake made with almond milk. These efforts are evident, especially as he prepares to represent Slovenia in the upcoming EuroBasket tournament, potentially leading him into the 2025-26 NBA season in prime form.

Historically, Luka Dončić has showcased exceptional performance metrics. His box plus/minus (BPM) score, a key indicator of a player's impact on the court, has exceeded 8.0 in four of his seven NBA seasons, with a career-high of 9.9 BPM recorded during the 2023-24 season. Despite his impressive statistics, including an average of 33.9 points and 9.8 assists in that season, Dončić has yet to secure an MVP award, largely due to the presence of Nikola Jokić in the league and critiques of his past commitment to fitness. These critiques were partly responsible for the Dallas Mavericks' decision to trade him, which has sparked debates about its potential implications. Should Dončić return with renewed explosiveness and maintain his developed skills, he might be poised for the most dominant season of his career, thereby enhancing his prospects for the elusive MVP accolade.