Renowned reporter: Doncic’s weight rebound and defensive struggles draw heavy criticism, Lakers fans will lose patience with him this year

On January 2nd Beijing time, renowned journalist Kevin O’Connor remarked that the "honeymoon period" for Lakers superstar Doncic could soon conclude, with Lakers fans’ dissatisfaction rising.

O’Connor explicitly stated on the program: "I think Lakers fans will lose patience with Doncic and might even turn hostile." He emphasized that this discontent did not come out of nowhere, saying, "I sense the early signs have emerged, and the negative feelings are continuously growing."

Doncic’s defensive performance has become the main target of criticism from both fans and media."He has been heavily criticized for his defense," O’Connor bluntly said, "His performance is indeed disappointing; many times on defense, he stands like a statue, showing no movement against ball handlers, lacking defensive intensity and any eagerness to contest."

Beyond his defensive attitude, Doncic’s physical condition has also raised concerns.O’Connor pointed out: "He looks significantly heavier. Remember how great he looked on the cover of Men’s Fitness magazine this fall, and his excellent performance at the EuroBasket? But now, he has reverted to his ‘old self,’ with a clear weight gain."

In fact, O’Connor had already expressed worries about Doncic’s weight management before the season began. "Before the season started, I was concerned whether he could maintain his weight throughout the long campaign. Now, he looks nothing like the peak-conditioned player we saw this summer."

According to O’Connor, Doncic’s form problems also reflect the Lakers’ current overall struggles. "When the Lakers were winning, some called them a 'false powerhouse' because their plus-minus and net efficiency stats didn’t match their record. Now it’s clear: this team lacks energy and passion."

People often blame LeBron’s return or Reaves’ absence, and O’Connor admits these factors have some impact, but he believes Doncic’s physical condition is equally disappointing. "This season, the Lakers stand at 20 wins and 11 losses, and in every one of those 11 defeats, they lost by double digits."

More notably, this seems to be a recurring issue in Doncic’s career. O’Connor presented some data: "In the 2023-2024 season, the Mavericks went 50-32, with 21 losses by double digits; after the Lakers acquired Doncic, they lost 13 games this season, 8 of which were by double digits. Combining the past two and a half years, 61% of losses in games where Doncic played were by double-digit margins."

"What does this indicate?" O’Connor questioned, "Losing is losing, but these teams often collapse completely, showing no fighting spirit. They lack the will to win, show no defensive effort, and have no resilient determination."

He believes this is the core issue behind current external doubts about the Lakers, Doncic, and LeBron — "This team simply lacks that gritty, fighting spirit." For this reason, "Reddick openly stated in a media interview that it’s very difficult for this team to improve, as both training and game attitudes are problematic."

O’Connor reiterated his prediction: "I think Lakers fans will lose patience with Doncic this year." He analyzed,With LeBron possibly leaving or retiring, all the pressure will shift entirely onto Doncic,"LeBron might transfer or retire, and then the real burden will fall on Doncic’s shoulders; he must carry the team alone and lead the Lakers out of their difficulties."