LeBron James Credited for Luka Doncic’s Off-Season Makeover, Lakers Assistant Says
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LOS ANGELES — Lakers assistant coach Greg St. Jean says Luka Doncic’s noticeably leaner frame is the result of spending every day alongside LeBron James.
Speaking with Pijus Sapetka of BasketNews, St. Jean explained that the 40-year-old superstar set the tone for Doncic’s revamped diet and workout plan. “Iron sharpens iron,” he said. “When you’re around really good players, you can’t help but be motivated to get better at your craft.” St. Jean added that the admiration is mutual, calling the relationship “two-way motivating.”
Doncic’s conditioning has already translated to the court. Through four games at the 2025 EuroBasket, the 26-year-old guard leads the tournament in scoring at 31.3 points per game, ranks second in assists (8.3) and tops the field in steals (3.3).
The Slovenian star arrived in Los Angeles via a stunning February trade from Dallas. He averaged 28.2 points, 8.1 rebounds and 7.5 assists over 28 regular-season appearances, but the Lakers were bounced in the first round by Minnesota.
General manager Rob Pelinka retooled the roster in July, adding Marcus Smart, Deandre Ayton and Jake LaRavia in free agency. Doncic underscored his commitment by signing a three-year max extension worth up to $165.3 million last month.
James, whose $52.6 million player option expires after the coming season, has reportedly been weighing his future in Los Angeles. St. Jean downplayed any tension, noting that James is in the gym at 5 a.m. and remains, alongside Doncic, “the foundation” of the franchise.
The Lakers are scheduled to open training camp later this month.
Source: Hoops Rumors
