Slovenian national team veteran Edo Murić offered an encouraging update on Luka Dončić before the Lakers begin training camp.
Luka Dončić appears determined to ensure his injury-plagued season does not become the beginning of a concerning trend.
Slovenian national team veteran Edo Murić recently offered an encouraging assessment of Dončić’s offseason progress as the Los Angeles Lakers prepare for the 2026-27 season.
“Luka looks better and better when I see him every year now,” Murić said.
That may sound like a simple compliment, but it carries additional weight coming from someone who has shared a locker room with Dončić and watched his development with Slovenia. Murić has seen the Lakers star at different stages of his career and understands what Dončić looks like when he is properly prepared.
Health remains the priority
Dončić’s conditioning has been a frequent subject throughout his NBA career, but the conversation has become especially important following his difficult 2025-26 season.
Despite winning the scoring title, Dončić dealt with injuries before suffering a hamstring strain that prevented him from participating in the Lakers’ playoff run. Los Angeles still reached the Western Conference semifinals but was swept by the Oklahoma City Thunder without its franchise player.
Dončić’s availability will ultimately determine the Lakers’ ceiling. Los Angeles can survive occasional absences during the regular season, but the roster was constructed around his ability to create advantages, command multiple defenders and generate open opportunities for teammates.
Murić’s assessment suggests Dončić has responded positively to last season’s disappointment. The Lakers will need more than encouraging offseason updates, but there is value in hearing that praise from a longtime teammate who knows his habits.
Lakers built around Dončić
Los Angeles reshaped its roster this summer by surrounding Dončić with a productive pick-and-roll center and several complementary veterans.
Walker Kessler gives Dončić the vertical threat and defensive anchor the Lakers lacked last season. Quentin Grimes provides shooting and perimeter defense, while Collin Sexton should help ease the offensive burden when Dončić rests.
Dončić also organized a team-bonding trip to Slovenia, allowing his new teammates to learn more about his background while developing chemistry before training camp. Players including Kevon Looney, Bronny James and Ziaire Williams have since praised the experience and Dončić’s leadership.
The Lakers no longer have to balance two eras after LeBron James’ departure. This is now unquestionably Dončić’s organization, and his approach will establish the standard for everyone around him.
Murić’s remarks will not guarantee Dončić remains healthy or carries Los Angeles through the postseason. They should, however, leave Lakers fans encouraged that their franchise player recognizes what is at stake.
If Dončić arrives healthy, conditioned and motivated, the Lakers will enter the season with a chance to become one of the Western Conference’s most dangerous teams.
