As August approaches, the NBA enters a pivotal period often characterized as 'muscle watch' season. Recently, Luka Dončić has drawn attention with a dramatic change in his physique, a subject discussed in a profile by Men's Health. After a season marked by scrutiny of his physical condition following a high-profile trade to the Los Angeles Lakers, Dončić now appears as fit as he has been in years, reminiscent of his rookie campaign during the 2018-19 season. His transformation appears to stem from a rigorous commitment to both his workouts and nutritional practices.

According to the profile, Dončić has been engaging in two-a-day training sessions that incorporate weight lifting, agility drills, and shooting practice while based in Croatia. His diet has reportedly shifted to a gluten-free and low-sugar regimen, ensuring he consumes a minimum of 250 grams of protein daily alongside an almond milk-based shake. The striking effectiveness of this regimen is evident just months after the conclusion of his abbreviated season with the Lakers in April. If Dončić maintains this condition through EuroBasket, where he will represent Slovenia, he may finally seize his elusive first NBA MVP award during the 2025-26 season.

In evaluating his performance metrics, box plus/minus (BPM) serves as an important indicator of a player's overall impact on the game. A BPM exceeding 8.0 typically aligns with an MVP-worthy campaign, a threshold Dončić has surpassed in four out of his seven NBA seasons. Notably, he achieved a career-high 9.9 BPM during the 2023-24 season, yet has never advanced past third place in MVP voting. The presence of fellow star Nikola Jokić has undoubtedly influenced this outcome, but a gradual decline in physical fitness also contributed to the challenges he faced. Concerns regarding Dončić's commitment to maintaining top physical form were among the reasons cited by the Dallas Mavericks when they decided to part ways with him. However, this public acknowledgment may come back to haunt the organization.

Should Dončić return to the NBA with the explosive dynamism reminiscent of his early seasons, or even surpass that level, while retaining the refined skills he has developed over his career, the league may witness one of his most dominant seasons to date. In the previous season (2023-24), during which he recorded a BPM of 9.9, Dončić averaged 9.8 assists, 9.2 rebounds, and 33.9 points per game, leading the league in scoring. His shooting percentages were equally impressive, achieving 57.3% accuracy from two-point range and 38.2% from beyond the arc. In postseason play, he averaged 28.9 points, 9.5 rebounds, and 8.1 assists, leading the Mavericks to the NBA Finals at just 24 years of age.

Despite promising trajectories in his career and his partnership with the Mavericks, injuries hindered his availability during the 2024-25 season. In February, the situation took a surprising turn when the organization executed a trade viewed as one of the most perplexing in league history. The Mavericks transferred Dončić, an exceptional offensive player yet to reach his athletic prime, in exchange for Anthony Davis, a player whose best years are considered behind him, alongside one first-round draft pick and emerging talent Max Christie. The Mavericks' front office, including General Manager Nico Harrison, framed the trade as a move towards a defense-oriented championship strategy. However, many observers believe the real outcome may serve to galvanize Dončić, motivating the young talent to showcase his elite abilities.

Achieving Luka Dončić's level of skill requires immense talent and dedication. Over six seasons since 2019-20, he has consistently averaged 30.0 points, 8.8 rebounds, and 8.7 assists. However, individual prowess alone does not necessarily result in MVP accolades or championships, as these often hinge on overcoming adversity. Iconic players like Michael Jordan faced the formidable 'Jordan Rules' of the late 1980s Detroit Pistons, while Larry Bird and Magic Johnson found motivation in their rivalry. LeBron James endured the challenges of the 2011 Finals before finally winning his first championship in 2012. For Dončić, the past year's events—including his Finals defeat to the Boston Celtics, the shocking trade to Los Angeles, and the narrative surrounding it—may serve as the catalysts for his ultimate evolution as a player. This evolution could very well position him for his first MVP award.