Could Luka Doncic’s fitness level have contributed to the Los Angeles Lakers’ early exit from the playoffs?
After the Lakers were eliminated in the first round with a 4-1 series loss to the Minnesota Timberwolves, head coach JJ Redick appeared to touch on the same concerns about Doncic’s conditioning that reportedly influenced the Dallas Mavericks’ decision to trade him earlier in the season.
Redick, speaking to ESPN, emphasized the need for better offseason preparation:
“I’ll start with the offseason and the work that’s required in an offseason to be in championship shape,” he said. “And we have a ways to go as a roster. And certainly, there are individuals that were in phenomenal shape. There’s certainly other ones that could have been in better shape. That’s where my mind goes immediately is we have to get in championship shape.”
Although Redick didn’t name Doncic directly, the implication was clear—Doncic, a five-time All-Star, appeared to lose steam as the season wore on.
Concerns about his conditioning have followed Doncic throughout his career. While some fans might not welcome the critique, it’s seen as a fair one. If he doesn’t improve his fitness by next season, he risks being consistently viewed as a subpar defender.
