Dario Saric's journey in the NBA might be reaching its conclusion as the 31-year-old remains a free agent. After being waived by the Detroit Pistons following a series of trade deadline moves, Saric's future in the league looks uncertain.
This season, Saric suited up for just five games with the Sacramento Kings. Last year, he played 16 games during his stint with the Denver Nuggets. These limited appearances suggest that his chances of securing another NBA opportunity are dwindling.
Saric's offseason saw him initially acquired by the Kings. He was then part of a three-team trade that sent Dennis Schroder and Keon Ellis to the Cleveland Cavaliers and brought De'Andre Hunter to Sacramento. His journey continued with another trade to the Detroit Pistons, involving players like Mike Conley, Jaden Ivey, and Kevin Huerter.
Once waived by the Pistons, Saric re-entered free agency, a position he hasn't been in since leaving the Golden State Warriors for Denver on a two-year, $10.6 million deal in 2024. With other big men like Chris Boucher also available, Saric's prospects seem challenging.
If Saric's NBA days are behind him, his impactful stint with the Warriors in 2023 might be remembered as his last significant contribution. Signed on a minimum contract, he quickly became a key player, ranking fourth in points and second in rebounds for Golden State in November. However, his role diminished by season's end, appearing in only five of the final 21 games.
His unexpected two-year contract with the Nuggets raised eyebrows, and now, after nine years in the league, Saric might find it tough to land another deal. Drafted 12th overall by the Philadelphia 76ers in 2014, Saric is perhaps best remembered for his time with the Phoenix Suns, where he played nearly three full seasons and made a memorable run to the 2021 NBA Finals before suffering an ACL injury.