Title: Dario Šarić Joins Golden State Warriors: A Perfect Fit for the Team’s Frontcourt
Introduction
Entering NBA free agency, the Golden State Warriors were in search of an established frontcourt veteran who could stretch the floor and bolster their interior presence. Despite having only a minimum contract to offer, the Warriors set their sights on Dario Šarić, who perfectly fit the profile they were looking for. After a wait of over eight days, Šarić finally agreed to join the team, much to the delight of the coaching staff and front office. In this article, we will explore why Šarić is an ideal addition to the Warriors and how he can contribute to their success in the upcoming season.
Šarić’s Role in the Warriors’ Lineup
Šarić’s ability to shoot from the frontcourt makes him a valuable asset for the Warriors. He can be paired with players like Draymond Green, Kevon Looney, or Jonathan Kuminga to spread the floor and create more space in their lineups. Unlike his predecessor JaMychal Green, Šarić possesses the skill to drive past defenders and make quick decisions on the move, averaging two assists per game throughout his career. This playmaking ability was lacking in the Warriors’ second unit last season, and Šarić’s arrival will address this issue.
Familiarity with Chris Paul
One appealing aspect of Šarić’s addition is his previous experience playing alongside Chris Paul during his time with the Phoenix Suns. Šarić and Paul formed a strong partnership on the court, with Šarić benefiting from Paul’s playmaking skills. The duo ran effective pick-and-roll plays, with Šarić showcasing his ability to pick-and-pop and find open spaces for layups. This familiarity with Paul will be advantageous for the Warriors, as they have also acquired the star point guard in the offseason.
Pick-and-Roll Action
The Warriors’ coaching staff plans to incorporate more pick-and-roll plays into their offensive scheme, especially when Paul is on the floor. Šarić’s versatility and understanding of the game make him an ideal partner for Paul in these sets. The team can explore various pick-and-roll actions, similar to the ones they ran during Paul’s time with the Suns. These plays force the defense into difficult situations, creating opportunities for Šarić to score or make plays for his teammates.
Šarić’s Flaws and Upside
While Šarić brings many strengths to the Warriors, he does have some limitations. His rebounding numbers have declined in recent years, and he may struggle defensively against dominant post players or quicker perimeter players. However, players like Otto Porter Jr. and Nemanja Bjelica, who had similar limitations, thrived within the Warriors’ system due to their intelligence and effort. Šarić possesses these qualities and is still working his way back to full form after recovering from an ACL injury. At just 30 years old, there is still plenty of upside to his game.
Potential Lineup Combinations
Šarić’s pairing with rookie Jonathan Kuminga in the second unit is particularly intriguing. Kuminga’s ability to spread the floor and pass effectively complements Šarić’s skills. The Warriors could potentially start the second and fourth quarters with a lineup consisting of Paul, Klay Thompson, Moses Moody, Kuminga, and Šarić. This lineup provides a balance of scoring, playmaking, and shooting, making it a formidable force on the court.
Conclusion
Dario Šarić’s addition to the Golden State Warriors brings much-needed frontcourt depth and shooting ability to the team. His familiarity with Chris Paul and his versatility in pick-and-roll plays make him an excellent fit for the Warriors’ offensive scheme. While he has some limitations, Šarić’s intelligence and effort compensate for them, and his potential upside adds to the team’s excitement. As the Warriors continue to shape their roster, Šarić’s signing marks a significant step towards their goal of reclaiming their championship form.