The Golden State Warriors have successfully reached an agreement with free agent forward Dario Šaric on a one-year contract, according to sources reported by ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski.
While specific financial details were not disclosed by Wojnarowski, the Warriors’ salary cap situation limited them to offering minimum-salary contracts to free agents who were not part of the team in the previous season. As a seven-year veteran, Šaric will earn $2,709,849 on a minimum deal, with the Warriors assuming a cap hit of $2,019,706.
Šaric’s absence from the entire 2021/22 season due to an ACL tear is now in the past, as he made his return to action this past season. Splitting his time between the Phoenix Suns and the Oklahoma City Thunder, he appeared in 37 games and 20 games, respectively. During these appearances, he averaged 6.4 points and 3.6 rebounds in 14.1 minutes per game, shooting at an impressive .458/.391/.829.
Known for his ability to stretch the floor as a 6’10” forward, Šaric has made 36.0% of his career three-point attempts. In Golden State, he is likely to take on a role similar to that of JaMychal Green from the previous season, providing the team with additional shooting and frontcourt depth.
Leading up to free agency, multiple reporters named the Warriors as the most likely landing spot for Šaric. Speculation arose that the 29-year-old forward may have been waiting to see if more lucrative offers emerged before ultimately deciding to join Golden State, as suggested by Marc Stein.
With contracts set to be signed by Šaric and Draymond Green, the Warriors’ roster count will reach 13 players on standard contracts. This leaves two spots available on the 15-man roster, along with three open two-way slots. The team may choose to begin the 2023/24 season with just 14 players on standard deals, considering financial and flexibility factors. Restricted free agent Lester Quinones, who received a two-way qualifying offer, stands as a strong candidate for a potential return.
The addition of Dario Šaric strengthens the Golden State Warriors’ frontcourt depth and provides a valuable boost to their lineup. His unique combination of size, skill, and basketball IQ make him an asset in the team’s rotation. His ability to stretch the floor as a shooter aligns perfectly with the Warriors’ fast-paced, team-oriented style of play.
This signing not only fortifies the Warriors’ roster but also presents Šaric with an opportunity to revive his career and showcase his skills on a championship-caliber team. Following a season-long absence due to an ACL tear, he now has the chance to make a significant impact and potentially secure a more lucrative contract in the future, similar to the experiences of Otto Porter Jr. and Donte DiVincenzo during their one-year stints with the Warriors.
From a financial standpoint, the one-year deal provides the Warriors with flexibility for future roster moves. It allows the team to assess Šaric’s performance and fit within their system while keeping their options open for the next off-season.
With the signing of Dario Šaric, the Golden State Warriors continue to shape their roster in pursuit of success in the upcoming NBA season. His presence adds depth and versatility to the team, setting the stage for an intriguing and promising campaign ahead.