Doncic and Lakers Set Sights on Achieving Championship Form
Transformative Conditioning: Lakers’ Rigorous Camp Prepares Team for NBA Preseason
Intense Training Camp Highlights Lakers’ Dedication to Success
The Los Angeles Lakers, under the guidance of coach JJ Redick, recently concluded their third day of training camp with a series of rigorous full-court sprints, aimed at enhancing the players’ conditioning. However, this intense regimen may have temporarily affected Redick’s popularity among the players, as he candidly admitted, “I don’t know if they like me right now.” Despite this, Redick’s commitment to getting the team into “championship shape” continues to drive their training efforts.
Luka Doncic Leads by Example with Offseason Transformation
Although Redick’s message about conditioning wasn’t aimed at anyone in particular, it did resonate clearly with 26-year-old superstar Luka Doncic. Over the summer, Doncic dedicated himself to intense workouts and a strict diet, transforming both physically and mentally. “It’s not just physical shape, it’s mental shape, too,” Doncic remarked. “Everyone’s in great shape, and it’s been great so far.”
Lakers Emphasize Sprinting, Pace, and Physicality
The Lakers ended their final practice session ahead of their preseason opener against the Phoenix Suns in Palm Desert, California, with challenging running drills. Players ran six court lengths in 34 seconds, followed by ten in 60 seconds, then another six in 34 seconds, with brief rests in between. Redick himself joined the final sprint, stating afterward, “I just ran the last six, and I’m good for the day.”
Gabe Vincent and Team Embrace Redick’s Vision
Guard Gabe Vincent expressed solidarity with Redick’s rigorous training demands, even if it elicited temporary animosity. “If we all hate you, but we hate you collectively, that’s great,” Vincent noted. Despite the exhaustion, the team recognizes the importance of their goals and has embraced the challenge together.
Injury Updates: Key Lakers Players Sidelined
Not all players participated in the demanding practice. LeBron James, Marcus Smart, and rookie Adou Thiero were sidelined due to injuries. Maxi Kleber is also sidelined after a quad injury during camp’s first day. Redick plans to manage player workloads carefully in the upcoming game against the Suns, focusing on short bursts of play and avoiding prolonged court time.
Emegypt reported that despite these setbacks, the Lakers are committed to building on last season’s performance, which saw them secure the No. 3 seed in the Western Conference with a 50-win season, only to be eliminated in the first round by the Minnesota Timberwolves.
The team’s focus remains on improving internally through enhanced conditioning and strong teamwork, aiming to make a significant impact in the upcoming season.
