5. Dario Saric
The Lakers' search for big men to play next to and behind Anthony Davis has been constant. Going back to their title team in 2020, Dwight Howard, JaVale McGee, Andre Drummond, Montrezl Harrell, Marc Gasol, DeAndre Jordan, Thomas Bryant, Mo Bamba, Christian Wood, and Jaxson Hayes have all had brief stints with the franchise. The most recent names haven’t worked, and the Lakers will again be searching for answers this summer.
Saric is best coming off the bench and playing 15 to 20 minutes per game. The Lakers cannot expect too much, but the 6’10 big man continues to make an impact. He is a career 36.2 percent 3-point shooter capable of make the right pass, getting a bucket, and playing stout defense. Saric has produced a 0.121 win shares per 48 minutes this season in Golden State, which is significantly better than the league average.
The 29-year-old would provide some floor spacing and versatility next to Anthony Davis. LA needs shooting, and Saric could be an alternative to going small.
He is coming off a one-year minimum contract with the Dubs. The Lakers could offer a raise or just try to convince him to take the minimum in Los Angeles. The Warriors plan to cut spending, so Saric could be on the move. To where will remain a question until he signs this summer.