A set of Luka Dončić's comparison photos taken four months apart has sparked heated discussions online. The two photos, taken in February and June this year, clearly show the remarkable weight loss results from Dončić's off-season training.

The Slovenian star shared photos and videos of his intense workouts in the weight room, signaling his readiness for the 2025-26 NBA season. Many media outlets believe Dončić is sending a message to the league: an MVP-caliber campaign may be on the horizon.

The 26-year-old guard just wrapped up a tumultuous season. In one of the NBA's most surprising trades in recent years, he was shockingly dealt from the Mavericks to the Lakers in February. After the Lakers sent Anthony Davis, Max Christie, and a first-round pick to Dallas, rumors swirled about why the Mavericks would part with their franchise cornerstone.
Veteran reporter Sam Amick revealed that internal doubts about Dončić's physical condition plagued the Mavericks, with some executives labeling him "lazy." His weight issues had long been a thorn in the team's side, compounded by concerns over his drinking and shisha habits. These factors reportedly pushed the Mavericks to trade the five-time All-Star—despite his leading them to the NBA Finals last season and finishing third in MVP voting.
Mavericks legend and hall-of-fame coach Don Nelson remains outspoken about the trade. At a press conference where he received the Chuck Daly Lifetime Achievement Award before Game 2 of the Finals, Nelson revealed: "I want everyone to know I'm wearing Luka's new signature shoes. I'm doing this to protest the Mavericks for trading him."

After joining the Lakers, Dončić seamlessly adapted to the system, averaging 28.2 points, 8.1 rebounds, 7.5 assists, 3.6 threes, and 1.6 steals in 28 games. He and LeBron James led LA to a 50-32 record as the Western Conference's third seed, only to lose in the first round to the Timberwolves. Hall of Famer Charles Barkley criticized Dončić's conditioning at season's end, urging him to lose weight.
Now, Dončić has taken action—appearing noticeably slimmer in multiple public outings. Is Luka primed for an MVP season? The basketball world awaits.
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