Doncic was traded to the Lakers last season in a blockbuster deal that sent Anthony Davis to Dallas. The move drew widespread criticism, with Mavericks general manager Nico Harrison publicly citing concerns over Doncic's conditioning as justification for parting ways with the franchise cornerstone.

Amid reports about Doncic’s improved physical health, Mavericks CEO Rick Welts addressed the controversial move during an appearance on Bloomberg Television. Speaking on the aftermath of the trade, Welts said:

After being traded from the Dallas Mavericks to the Lakers back in early February, Doncic has spent the better part of the last five months being heavily criticized for his weight management and conditioning habits after it was revealed by ESPN both were major factors that facilitated his trade to L.A.