JJ Redick may have the same complaint about Luka Doncic as Mavs had

Apr 9, 2025; Dallas, Texas, USA; Los Angeles Lakers guard Luka Doncic (77) in action during the game between the Dallas Mavericks and the Los Angeles Lakers at American Airlines Center. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-Imagn Images

Was player conditioning — specifically that of superstar Luke Doncic — to blame for the Los Angeles Lakers’ early playoff exit?

Following the team’s 4-1 first-round series loss to the Minnesota Timberwolves, head coach JJ Redick echoed the reported concerns about Doncic that led to his surprise trade from the Dallas Mavericks earlier this season.

JJ Redick had his exit interview with the media yesterday and said, 'We have to get into championship mode.'

DP thinks there's only one player on the #Lakers he could have been referring to: Luka Doncić. pic.twitter.com/iEHRghzcwI

— Dan Patrick Show (@dpshow) May 2, 2025

“I’ll start with the offseason and the work that’s required in an offseason to be in championship shape,” Redick said, via ESPN. “And we have a ways to go as a roster.

“And certainly, there are individuals that were in phenomenal shape. There’s certainly other ones that could have been in better shape. That’s where my mind goes immediately is we have to get in championship shape.”

Although Redick didn’t single Doncic out by name, it’s clear the five-time All-Star faded down the stretch.

Conditioning concerns have plagued Doncic throughout his career and while it’s a criticism some fans may not want to hear, it’s warranted. He must return next season in better physical shape or forever be considered a below-average defender.

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