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49m ago

Lean Luka Dončić Hits Lakers Camp as Franchise Focal Point, No. 3 in ESPN Rank

JJ Redick says Dončić’s leaner, disciplined routine is here to stay after his extension and EuroBasket surge.

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Luka Doncic #77 of the Los Angeles Lakers reacts against the Chicago Bulls during the first quarter at Crypto.com Arena on March 22, 2025 in Los Angeles, California.
Lakers stars LeBron James, left, and Luka Doncic celebrate a play during the first half of a victory over the New Orleans Pelicans on Friday, April 4, 2025, at Crypto.com Arena. (Photo by Luke Hales/Getty Images)

Overview

  • Dončić signed a three-year, $165 million extension in August, cementing his status as the Lakers’ centerpiece heading into training camp.
  • ESPN placed him No. 3 in its preseason Top 100, following a summer in which he averaged 34.7 points for Slovenia at EuroBasket 2025.
  • Redick praised the guard’s offseason transformation, saying the new fitness standard is a daily commitment that will continue into the season.
  • Scottie Pippen questioned whether Dončić’s playing style can deliver another Finals run, renewing external skepticism about the team’s ceiling.
  • At a recent Lakers fan event, Dončić joked he is a mix of Tom Brady and Lamar Jackson, as conversation around leadership and identity grows with LeBron James in a contract year.