Dario Saric is the latest veteran big man to team up with the Golden State Warriors. The floor-spacing center has already earned rave reviews from his new teammates, specifically Steph Curry. Saric also impressed while playing for Croatia during this summer’s Olympic Qualifying games.
During a recent post-practice media availability, Steve Kerr shared some insight into the role Saric will play for the Warriors this season. Golden State’s championship head coach noted how Saric will provide a similar impact to former Warriors center Nemanja Bjelica, who won a championship with the franchise in 2022 and hasn’t suited up for an NBA team since.
“Dario’s a perfect fit,” Kerr said. “He’s been great. Now that he has his legs underneath him and a feel for how we play, he’s getting better every day. We really missed that dynamic last year. That Bjelica, Porter-type player, big who can stretch the floor but still make plays. Good passer. That really changes the equation offensively when you have someone out there who you can run the offensive through. And who can space the floor with a three-point shot. So, I’m excited about him.”
Saric, 29, will team back up with Chris Paul, whom he had a good on-court relationship with during their time together on the Phoenix Suns. Saric’s ability to set solid screens, score from all three levels, and protect the rim as a drop defender will ensure he gets consistent playing time for Kerr’s team.
Steve Kerr: “Dario’s a perfect fit. Now that he has his legs underneath him & a feel for how we play, he’s getting better every day. We missed that dynamic last year. A Bjelica, Porter type of big who can stretch the floor but still makes plays. Good passer. Really changes the equation offensively”
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The Warriors are short of size this season. As such, Saric and Kevon Looney will likely be the team’s two primary big men, as both play a smart, physical brand of basketball, which will ensure the Warriors can’t easily be bullied around the rim.
