The Big Lead

LA Lakers coach reveals how LeBron James impacted Luka Doncic’s transformation

Luka Doncic's body transformation has been the talk of the NBA world, and a Lakers coach has revealed LeBron James' influence.

By Divij Kulkarni

Los Angeles Lakers guard Luka Doncic and forward LeBron James leave the court after defeating the Minnesota Timberwolves.
Los Angeles Lakers guard Luka Doncic and forward LeBron James leave the court after defeating the Minnesota Timberwolves. / Kiyoshi Mio-Imagn Images
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Luka Doncic has made waves this offseason after pictures and videos of his new, toned physique hit social media recently. The NBA superstar is showing that it's not just about the looks at EuroBasket with Slovenia, too, putting up monster individual performances despite the team's struggles.

When Luka was traded to the Los Angeles Lakers, many questioned how he would respond. Some figured that LeBron James's greatness could inspire Doncic, in turn, to get in the best shape he possibly can. And that seems to have come true, with assistant coach Greg St. Jean saying as much.

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You know what? I always find this, iron sharpens iron," St. Jean told BasketNews. "When you're around really good players... 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," the coach added. "He's always been somebody he's really admired. So I think having those two together is obviously motivating.

"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... I think everybody's motivated to come back and have a really good season."

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James' longevity has been largely attributed to how well the King manages his body and conditioning. The fact that he can still be an All-Star at 40 years old is a testament to his hard work.

Luka, following in his footsteps, should ring alarm bells for the rest of the league. The Slovenian was an MVP candidate and went to the Finals while still not being at his best physically. If he's truly on that LeBron routine, multiple MVPs and championships aren't an impossible prospect.

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