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The LA Lakers enter the new season with big hopes, as Luka Doncic and LeBron James prepare for their first full campaign together. Still, much of the buzz has centred on Doncic's physical transformation, which assistant coach Greg St. Jean suggests was influenced by LeBron himself.
In an interview with Basketnews.com, St. Jean, who is currently with Doncic and Slovenia at the EuroBasket, shared his opinion on the guard's impressive transformation:
"You know what? I always find this, iron sharpens iron. You can't help but be motivated to continue to get better at your craft. I think Luka's learned a little bit from every great player he's been around. And I know he's always looked up to LeBron."
Continuing on the duo, the Lakers coach mentioned it was a two-way street, with both stars motivating one another:
"I think having those two together is obviously motivating. I think it's two-way motivating as well. I don't think it's just a one-way street. I think LeBron, you can see, is working really hard as well. He's up at 5 a.m., and he's working on his body as well."
Luka Doncic has made a significant shift this offseason and has worked hard on his fitness, which was a huge issue in recent seasons. According to multiple reports, the guard has lost more than 31 LBS ( 14kg), as he expects to clinch his first-ever NBA title this season.
The Lakers made major offseason moves to create the right support system around Doncic. With Deandre Ayton, Marcus Smart and Jake LaRavia joining the squad, LA has built a strong core, while James continues to provide his leadership and experience to the squad.
LA Lakers legend excited for new season with Luka Doncic
While Luka Doncic is currently playing with Slovenia in the EuroBasket 2025 group stage, many fans are eagerly awaiting the start of the 2025-26 NBA season.
Between Doncic's new slimmed-down physique and a chance for the five-time All-NBA first team member to play a full season of Lakers basketball, hype is continuing to build.
With training camp set to kick off at the beginning of October, LA legend Pau Gasol weighed in on the year ahead during an interview with SportsNet at a recent LA Sparks game this week:
"It’s great. Obviously, we were all thrilled, shocked and excited last season when the trade happened. It’s great to have Luka in a Lakers uniform and having that anchor for the next many years to come. Super excited for the team. Let's see how we can take advantage of the team right now and try to have another run at it.”
Going into this season, however, Doncic is not only acclimated in LA, but he is also familiar with coach JJ Redick's coaching style.
With a revamped squad that will include 2022 Defensive Player of the Year Marcus Smart and veteran big man Deandre Ayton, only time will tell how the season turns out.
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