One thing has become clear about the Dallas Mavericks: something isn’t entirely right with star point guard Luka Doncic.
There is no doubt that Doncic is performing better than most players in the league but he’s not reaching the personal heights we have come to expect from Slovenian wonder.
Doncic is putting up 25.6 points, eight rebounds, and 8.5 assists a game – which is no doubt impressive, but are all his lowest numbers since his rookie season.
Donic is still playing well but he seems to be a bit slower and slightly off his game which has led many to ask one question: why?
Some people think it has to do with Doncic’s conditioning and the shape his body is in.
Luka Admits He Has To Do More
Doncic’s listed weight from the team is 230 pounds but some reports say he is closer to 260.
He’s moving quickly but he doesn’t have the same dynamic kineticism that he had only a few months ago and that seems due to some extra weight and a lack of proper conditioning.
Doncic has admitted that’s the case.
According to Sports Illustrated, Doncic said “I had the Olympics, took three weeks off and I relaxed a little bit. Maybe too much. I’ve just got to get back on track.”
Luka addressed his conditioning following Tuesday's loss to the Nets. pic.twitter.com/q0UQ0JKC9I
— NBA on ESPN (@ESPNNBA) December 8, 2021
Doncic did have a busy summer, participating with his home Slovenian national team at the Olympics and winning fourth-place.
Instead of spending time on conditioning and getting his body ready for the new season, it looks like Doncic instead relaxed and maybe indulged in a few too many snacks.
This has led to a lower point output (his 44.4 percent shooting from the field is also a low) and injuries too.
Doncic has been impacted by recent injures to his knee and ankle and the team suffered, going 0-4 in his absence.
It Has Happened Before
This isn’t the first time Doncic’s conditioning has been called into question.
In fact, during his rookie year many people said he looked slightly out of shape and not ready to lead an NBA team.
Doncic commented on that back then and eventually got in better shape and became one of the prime stars in the league.
Full Doncic quote: “I mean, people on Twitter say every stuff “But, it’s true I’m not in my best shape. I will get there for sure. But, you know, I’ve never been a muscular guy, so what can I say?”
— Brad Townsend (@townbrad) December 15, 2020
So since this has happened in the past already, it’s safe to assume that Doncic will be able to conquer it again and get in better shape before the season is done.
However, it’s vital that Doncic works quickly to get in peak physical form because this season is far more important than his rookie season – or any season that has come after that.
A Lot Riding On This Season
Time is running out for the union of the Mavericks and Doncic.
Doncic is one of the best point guards in the Association and is the heart and soul of the Mavericks.
However, it’s no secret that Dallas needs to improve its chance of winning a Finals very soon or else Doncic is going to start looking to move himself elsewhere.
There is a good chance that if this season doesn’t end with total victory – or something very close to it – Doncic might be itching to pack his bags and head out.
Therefore, the front office should be doing all they can to get Doncic in better shape because they know that if he isn’t performing at peak abilities the team will suffer and possibly lose him in the near future.
In other words, if Doncic doesn’t pursue better conditioning and end up losing some extra weight the team might end up losing him.
NEXT: Was Hiring Jason Kidd A Mistake By The Mavericks?
