LeBron inspired Luka Doncic, and now the Lakers have a new face

Luka Doncic didn’t just change jerseys—he changed his body. The Slovenian star, now sharing a locker room with LeBron James in Los Angeles, dropped over 30 pounds during the offseason. But this isn’t just about aesthetics. It’s a transformation aimed at leadership, legacy, and above all, winning. According to Lakers assistant Greg St. Jean, Doncic’s physical overhaul was sparked by one clear influence: LeBron. “He’s always looked up to him,” said the coach in comments cited by Sportskeeda, while accompanying Doncic at EuroBasket.

The phrase “iron sharpens iron” has become a mantra inside the Lakers locker room. Luka Doncic, already a star in Dallas, now trains alongside one of the greatest of all time. And it shows. LeBron James still wakes up at 5 a.m. to work on his body. Doncic has responded with discipline and focus. The result: a more agile, explosive, and committed version of the Lakers’ new centerpiece.

Full throttle

The franchise didn’t waste time. In August, Luka Doncic signed a three-year extension worth $165 million, securing his place in Los Angeles beyond LeBron James’ current deal, as the veteran enters his 23rd season. With new additions like Deandre Ayton, Marcus Smart, and Jake LaRavia, the team has been restructured to surround Doncic with defensive grit and offensive versatility. The message is clear: the future is now.

 

Ver esta publicación en Instagram

 

Una publicación compartida de Luka Doncic (@lukadoncic)

But Luka Doncic doesn’t want comparisons. In an interview with Complex, he was blunt: “I just want to win.” He’s not trying to replace LeBron James—he’s building his own empire. And in a city like Los Angeles, that means something. To succeed, he’ll need charisma, consistency, and character. Doncic looks ready to take on that challenge.

A response to past criticism

Luka Doncic’s transformation also answers past criticism. In previous seasons, his conditioning was questioned—especially during key playoff moments. Now, with a renewed physique and a more mature mindset, the Slovenian is chasing his first NBA title. And he’s doing it alongside LeBron James, who, despite being in the twilight of his career, remains a league-wide symbol of work ethic and leadership.

In fact, the dynamic between Luka Doncic and LeBron James could reshape the Lakers’ present. These two aren’t competing—they’re complementing each other. And if Luka’s body is a reflection of his commitment, the Lakers’ project might be closer to success than many expect. Both players have their eyes locked on the ring.