Los Angeles Lakers star Luka Doncic's new physique gets a skeptical response from Stephen A. Smith

Luka Doncic’s transformed look has become the talk of the town. Almost everyone is speculating on his new look as an asset for his team. However, Stephen A. Smith is not one of them. He expressed skepticism over Luka Doncic’s physique playing any substantial role in his performance. Smith opined that staying fit throughout the season and bolstering the defensive side should be the focus. According to him, Luka will be able to make a difference to the team if he puts in more effort in improving mental resilience, in addition to his looks.Doncic appeared on the cover of Men's Health magazine recently in his transformed avatar, drawing lots of positive comments from fans. Smith, with his comments, tried to shift focus to other aspects that can help Luka put up a great performance, in the year which is being considered one of the most crucial years for Doncic.Stephen A. Smith gave a new perspective on rising expectations for Luka Doncic. The Lakers’ star is getting a lot of attention because of his improved physique, but Smith does not seem impressed the way others are. Expressing his thoughts on Luka Doncic’s new look, Smith said:“No. Not any more scared than they already are. I mean the brother is phenomenal as an offensive talent, no doubt about this,” weighing in on Luka’s talent as an offensive pivot.’He further said, “But there’s a difference between getting in shape in the offseason and staying in shape during the season, and that’s something we have to monitor moving forward.He added, “The conditioning is not only imperative, but does that mean you’re going to move without the ball instead of standing around and receive it? Does it mean that you’re going to up your efforts continuously on the defensive side of the ball? That’s where it’s going to really, really show.”Stephen A. Smith reminded everyone of Luka Doncic’s vulnerable points. According to him, Luka's working on his conditioning to make the best of the roster built around him is a positive sign. He said:“It’s nice to see him prioritize his conditioning because we know it’s been an Achilles heel of his.”Smith elaborated, “He’s a terrific basketball player, he’s a superstar in this league, but how’s it going to translate to the basketball court is not just about how you look, but the effort you put forth, and it doesn’t end in the offseason… that’s when it starts.”Luka Doncic has achieved an important feat by becoming fitter. As per Smith, the new challenge for him lies in bolstering his defensive abilities. It will be his first full season with the Lakers after his surprise trade from the Dallas Mavericks. Luka Doncic is playing for the Los Angeles Lakers this year.Luka Doncic has played 7 seasons in the NBA.Luka Doncic plays as point guard with the Los Angeles Lakers.Also Read: Kendrick Perkins picks Luka Doncic for 2025-2026 MVP after dramatic weight loss: “We looking at skinny Luka!”