"Nico awakened a demon": Luka Doncic’s offseason gym clip goes viral as fans buzz over Los Angeles Lakers star’s revenge arc after early playoff exit

After a short-lived playoff run with the Los Angeles Lakers, Luka Doncic seems determined to flip the script. Just months after arriving in LA via a blockbuster trade, the 26-year-old superstar is already making headlines for his offseason commitment.

On Tuesday morning, Doncic took to Instagram to share footage of himself grinding in the gym—proof that he's using the early break to lock in ahead of his first full season in purple and gold. For Lakers fans, it’s a sign of hope—and perhaps the beginning of something big.

Luka Doncic jumpstarts offseason grind after early Los Angeles Lakers playoff exit

The Los Angeles Lakers’ first-round exit at the hands of the Minnesota Timberwolves was jarring. Eliminated in just five games, the team never quite looked cohesive—an expected hurdle for a roster that had only recently added one of the NBA’s most ball-dominant stars. Traded from the Dallas Mavericks just before the February deadline, Luka Doncic had little time to build chemistry before the postseason arrived.Though his numbers held up (28.2 points, 8.2 rebounds, and 7.8 assists per game), the fit wasn’t seamless. His shooting dipped under playoff pressure, and questions remained about whether his conditioning could hold up through the rigors of a full season.For years, critics have pointed to Doncic’s physical preparation as the one element holding him back from true MVP-level dominance. Even in Dallas, concerns around endurance and offseason habits often lingered—concerns that reportedly played into the Mavericks’ decision to part ways with their franchise cornerstone.

But if this week’s training footage is any indication, Doncic is taking those critiques personally. The video shows a leaner, more focused version of the five-time All-Star pushing through high-intensity workouts. No flashy angles, no music overlays—just raw reps and sweat. It’s the type of off-season signal fans—and perhaps Lakers brass—have been waiting for.

NBA fans buzz over Luka Doncic’s early offseason grind

The footage sparked immediate conversation on X, where fans quickly chimed in on Doncic’s noticeably early start to the offseason.One long-time follower highlighted just how uncharacteristic this kind of early summer prep is for the Slovenian star:“Been following him for 8 years. This is the first time he has started training in the summertime early. He usually starts late July/early August so yes, this is actually different from the past 7 years of his NBA career.”

It’s the kind of shift that longtime fans recognize as more than just cosmetic—it’s a mindset change.Another user turned their attention to the Lakers' front office, putting pressure on management to match Doncic’s effort with smart roster construction:“Luka is doing his part, the Lakers FO should do their part by assembling a roster that can compete with capable depth. If they don’t put up a very good roster, it doesn’t matter how fit or conditioned he is.”

Of course, not every reaction was analytical—some fans honed in on the energy of the video itself. One user captured the vibe perfectly, referencing the background music heard in Luka’s clip:“Bro got that Slovenian music on you know what time it is.”

And perhaps the most succinct reaction came from a fan ready to declare war on behalf of Doncic:“Luka to the League next season:”

And then, of course, there was the dramatic flair that only NBA Twitter can deliver:“NICO AWAKENED A DEMON.”

The mixture of skepticism, praise, and concern painted a clear picture: Fans are watching this next chapter very closely.For Luka Doncic, this offseason marks more than just recovery—it’s a reset with intent. With LeBron James expected back for his 23rd NBA season and expectations mounting in Los Angeles, Doncic is sending a message: he’s not waiting for October to prepare.

He’s starting now.Also Read: Dallas Mavericks’ Luka Doncic trade debate resurfaced as Hall of Famer Don Nelson shows firm protest wearing signature Slovenian star’s shoesIf the early work leads to better chemistry, improved stamina, and a full season of health, Doncic could emerge as the Lakers’ true engine—something the team desperately needs as it looks to reload and contend. For now, though, all signs point to a star taking control of his narrative, one workout at a time.