Luka seeks to improve conditioning: 'I know I've got to do better'
Dallas Mavericks star Luka Doncic says he needs to improve his conditioning amid weight concerns and a slow start to the season by his standards.
Doncic was asked about his physical fitness following the Mavericks' loss to the Brooklyn Nets on Tuesday when broadcaster and Hall of Fame guard Reggie Miller called on the Slovenian to slim down.
"People are going to talk about it, yes or no. I know I've got to do better," Doncic said postgame, courtesy of ESPN's Tim MacMahon.
Doncic added, "I had a long summer. 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."
His listed weight is 230 pounds, but he reportedly began training camp this year at over 260 pounds for the second consecutive season, according to MacMahon.
After leading Slovenia to a fourth-place finish at the Olympics over the summer, Doncic's statistics remain impressive this NBA season - averaging 25.5 points, 8.5 assists, and 7.9 rebounds - but they have dipped compared to his strong 2020-21 campaign. The Mavs' franchise star is also currently battling through a sprained thumb and ankle soreness.
Dallas has gone a disappointing 11-12 to start the season.