As August approaches, the NBA enters what fans often refer to as 'muscle watch' season, a period during which players’ physiques are closely monitored. This year, Luka Dončić has captured attention, aided by a feature in Men's Health magazine. The scrutiny surrounding Dončić intensified following a significant trade to the Los Angeles Lakers, leading to discussions regarding his fitness level, which previously raised concerns. However, recent images indicate that he has attained a leaner physique, arguably resembling the version of himself seen during his rookie season in 2018-19.

Dončić's transformation is attributed to a rigorous commitment to his training regimen and dietary choices. Reports indicate that he is engaging in two-a-day workout sessions that combine weightlifting, agility drills, and shooting practice, primarily in Croatia. Additionally, Dončić has adopted a gluten-free, low-sugar diet, ensuring he consumes at least 250 grams of protein each day, accompanied by a daily shake made with almond milk. The results of this disciplined approach have become evident just months after concluding his first truncated season with the Lakers in April.

Should Dončić maintain this enhanced level of fitness while participating in EuroBasket, representing Slovenia, and successfully transition into the 2025-26 NBA season, he might be in contention for his first Most Valuable Player (MVP) award. His box plus/minus (BPM) metric—a tool that assesses a player's overall contribution to their team—has placed him above the 8.0 mark in four of his seven NBA seasons. Last season, he achieved a career-high BPM of 9.9 but has yet to secure an MVP title, finishing no better than third in the voting. The presence of Nikola Jokić alongside him has influenced those opportunities, compounded by previous concerns regarding his fitness which were partly responsible for the Dallas Mavericks’ decisions regarding his future with the franchise. The organization’s openly stated reasons for his departure might have unintended consequences, especially if Dončić returns to the court with the explosiveness seen in his early seasons, potentially signaling an era of unparalleled performance.