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10 hours ago
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Mavericks general manager Nico Harrison made global headlines this past season with what is widely regarded as one of the most stunning trades in NBA history.
In a shocking move ahead of the 2024-25 trade deadline, Luka Doncic was traded to the Lakers in a deal centered around Anthony Davis. The decision sent shockwaves through Dallas, as Harrison dealt away the franchise’s cornerstone in exchange for the veteran star. Harrison cited concerns over Doncic’s conditioning, discipline, defensive effort and weight as key reasons behind the trade.
However, the trade may have lit a fire under Doncic, seemingly giving him extra motivation this offseason.
According to Dan Wolke of The Athletic, Doncic has shed significant weight and is now on a strict diet. The superstar point guard reportedly took a month off from on-court work to focus more on his physical well-being and already appears noticeably slimmer.
Doncic is also set to represent Slovenia in EuroBasket, which begins in August, giving him the chance to enter the NBA season fresh off competing against high-level international competition.
Now 26, Doncic will have some added motivation this season as he looks to prove Harrison and the Mavericks wrong, while attempting to lead the Lakers to an NBA championship.
Doncic began his career in Dallas, where he played 422 regular-season games and averaged 28.6 points, 8.7 rebounds and 8.3 assists per game.
As far as the Mavericks, they are awaiting Kyrie Irving’s return from a torn ACL in his left knee and hope to bounce back after missing the playoffs this past season. When healthy, the club is expected to feature a loaded roster including Davis, Irving, Klay Thompson and projected No. 1 overall pick Cooper Flagg.
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