NBA insider Sam Amick discussed the Dallas Mavericks’ concerns about Luka Dončić on “FanDuel TV’s Run It Back”, confirming that the team fears his body may break down over time. Amick noted that the Lakers also hope Dončić will emulate LeBron James’ disciplined approach. He explained that Dallas sees a connection between Dončić’s off-court habits and long-term physical durability, with some believing he could face serious physical decline in the next five years.
Amick continued by emphasizing the significance of these concerns, noting that he isn’t the only reporter who has heard them. He suggested that only time will tell how Dončić’s career unfolds, adding that in five years, it will be interesting to revisit the Mavericks’ worries—especially if Dončić ends up wearing a Lakers jersey.
“If I had to guess, it’s not going to age very well,” Amick added. “But absolutely, the nightlife, the drinking combined with the physical stuff… The Lakers are certainly hoping that Luka leans into LeBron and does pick up on his habits, does become more of that guy.”
NBA insider Shams Charania previously reported that the Lakers hope LeBron James can mentor Luka Dončić, helping him develop better habits both on and off the court. Given James’ longevity and dominance in his 22nd season at age 40, he serves as the ideal role model. If Dončić follows James’ advice, the Mavericks’ concerns about his body breaking down in five years may prove unfounded—especially since Dončić has not been particularly injury-prone.
Dončić played at least 60 games in each of his first six NBA seasons, including 70 in 2023-24. The 2024-25 season is the first in which the 26-year-old has missed a significant stretch due to injury, yet he could still finish with over 50 games played.
As Amick suggested, this move is unlikely to age well for the Mavericks. Trading away Luka Dončić could go down as one of the worst decisions in NBA history, alienating their fanbase just months after reaching the NBA Finals. Meanwhile, the Lakers have capitalized on Dallas’ misstep, and Dončić’s tenure in Los Angeles is off to a strong start. The team is currently on a six-game winning streak, and the five-time All-Star has quickly settled into his new home.
Dončić is averaging 22.0 points, 8.3 rebounds, 6.8 assists, 1.8 steals, and 0.5 blocks per game with the Lakers and has already developed strong chemistry with LeBron James. The duo has been nearly unstoppable lately, and they’re only expected to improve with time. Dončić and James will take the court next when the Lakers face the New Orleans Pelicans at Crypto.com Arena on Tuesday at 10:30 PM ET, where they’ll likely put on another impressive performance.
Leave a Reply