Michael Beasley shares why he hates the narrative that Luka Doncic is out of shape: "When I'm scoring 50, tell me then to get in shape"

Luka Dončić faces criticism for two perceived flaws: inadequate defensive effort, particularly highlighted during the Dallas Mavericks' first-round playoff loss to the Minnesota Timberwolves, and a lack of physical conditioning, which was cited as a key reason for his surprising trade to the Los Angeles Lakers.

Former NBA player Michael Beasley strongly disputes the narrative that Dončić is out of shape. Beasley argues that Dončić's consistent high scoring (averaging over 20 shots per game throughout his eight-year career) and his ability to lead the Mavericks to the NBA Finals last season prove he possesses the necessary conditioning. He emphasizes the physical demands of the NBA, stating it requires significant strength and stamina just to get a shot off.

Beasley criticizes the inconsistency of the criticism, noting that the same people questioning Dončić's fitness celebrate his 50 or 60-point performances. He asserts that scoring such high points necessitates being in shape to attempt at least 30 shots, especially against NBA defenses. Beasley contends that the "out of shape" critique only emerges after losses, disappearing when Dončić dominates offensively (like scoring 73 points), suggesting critics unfairly seek negatives rather than acknowledging when opponents simply perform better.

The article mentions that Dončić wanted to stay with the Mavericks long-term, but the team traded him. Beasley takes offense at how Dallas reportedly used discussions about Dončić's "subpar physical conditioning" to "assassinate his character" on the way out. Beasley challenges this logic, questioning why fitness isn't questioned after big scoring nights but is brought up immediately after turnovers or losses.