Luka Dončić Rumors: Mavericks Talked to PG About Decreasing Preferred Playing Weight

Dallas Mavericks officials reportedly spoke to star Luka Dončić about potentially reducing his playing weight for the 2023-24 season.

Tim Cato of The Athletic reported the discussion, though there was no word on what Dončić's reaction was to the request from management. Dončić has struggled at points throughout his career at keeping in peak basketball shape over the summer, often playing himself into form early in the season.

The All-Star guard reportedly hired a nutritionist to help him this offseason after taking criticism about his fitness level as the Mavericks struggled down the stretch last season.

Focusing on his fitness during the offseason has been a process for Dončić, who has come into camp weighing as much as 260 pounds—30 pounds over his 230-pound listed weight. His inconsistent fitness has led to Dončić wearing down at times late in games. He tied for 39th last season among all players in fourth-quarter scoring.

It is worth noting that Dončić has been largely healthy throughout his NBA career. He's played at least 61 games in each of his five NBA seasons and has suffered no major injuries. It could be fair to wonder if Dončić's current workout regimen allows him to stay healthy over the course of a long, 82-game season, given he gets rest and maintains bulk to withstand the contact of his playing style.

The Mavericks are in a tricky situation, given Dončić is one of the game's best players and a perennial MVP candidate. Asking him to make any adjustments in his routine requires striking a delicate balance—particularly as the Dallas front office continues to fumble roster construction around its star.