Dario Saric could potentially consider a move to the EuroLeague after being waived by the Detroit Pistons.
Dario Saric's nine-year NBA career appears to be nearing its end, as after being involved in a couple of trades at the NBA trade deadline, the Detroit Pistons ultimately waived him.
Over this season and last season combined, the Croatian big man has appeared in only 21 games. Despite not having found a consistent role in the NBA, he could still be a valuable asset for many EuroLeague teams, especially given that he is still just 31 years old.
In this article, I will outline a few potential EuroLeague landing destinations for Saric, based on team fit and current needs, ahead of the February 25 EuroLeague transfer deadline.
Anadolu Efes Istanbul
Credit Fotodiena.lt
A comeback to his former team would be an interesting option, as he would bring something that no other big man on the roster currently provides.
Saric's playmaking ability would certainly help Efes run a more fluid, free-flowing offense and add another reliable offensive option.
His familiarity with the club could also ease his transition back to the EuroLeague, especially given how long it can sometimes take players coming from the NBA to adapt to the European game.
At Efes, Saric could be viewed as a potential second-option center behind Vincent Poirier, playing alongside floor-stretching power forwards such as Ercan Osmani and Rolands Smits, likely pushing Kai Jones out of the rotation.
Panathinaikos Athens
There have already been rumors in the past about Panathinaikos' interest in Saric, with the player himself confirming them last season while playing for Denver, and upon closer look, the move could actually make sense.
Panathinaikos are reportedly considering names such as Guerschon Yabusele or Nigel Hayes-Davis ahead of the EuroLeague transfer deadline. While Saric would bring something completely different to the table, he could be a very intriguing fit.
At this stage of his career, Saric is more effective at the center position, where he could provide a level of playmaking that the other centers on the roster don't really offer.
Personally, I don't think Panathinaikos necessarily need Saric, given that their roster is already stacked with talent at every position. However, adding him would introduce a unique skill set that their current centers lack, which could prove valuable heading into the postseason.
Partizan Belgrade
Saric most likely would not be a difference-maker right away for Partizan, but his experience, high basketball IQ, and offensive skill set could definitely be something the team could use.
Right now, Partizan don't have a reliable player around whom the offense could be structured. Saric, with his experience, could be helpful and could fit in relatively easily.
Looking ahead to the upcoming season, Saric could be a player you're not necessarily building around, but someone who could play a crucial role.
Given that Saric understands the culture very well, he could be a valuable addition to Partizan, which will most likely try to build a roster centered around their local players.
Credit FIBA
Dubai Basketball
Dubai would definitely not be a team afraid to take the risk of acquiring a former NBA player.
The team is heavily offense-oriented, and it seems that Saric could find his role relatively easily, perhaps more easily than on any other team.
They already have Filip Petrusev in the power forward position, and Saric would most likely serve as his backup, although their duo on the court could also be intriguing to watch.
Saric's experience would be extremely valuable for Dubai's frontcourt, which sometimes struggles for consistency, while also potentially providing the team with playmaking and floor-spacing from the five position.
EA7 Emporio Armani Milan
Milan looks like another team that could potentially be interested in the services of Dario Saric.
The team's frontcourt seems to be missing another body, and with constant injury concerns, Saric could be an interesting option to fill that gap.
Although Milan might be cautious given Saric's injury history, the potential reward of acquiring a highly talented offensive player with extensive NBA and EuroLeague experience is hard to pass up, especially for a team like Milan competing for a playoff spot.
Edvinas Kuzas
Edvinas Kuzas began his basketball media career in 2025, joining BasketNews as a Daily Writer. He brings a deep understanding of the sport, shaped by years of following both its history and trending topics. Alongside his writing, he is currently pursuing a degree in basketball coaching, further expanding his knowledge of the game. This combination allows him to provide more analytical, insightful, and opinion-based perspectives on basketball.
About author
Thank you for reading us! We have even more content for you.
If you like our content, please click here and add us as your preferred source. It helps us a lot, and we are committed to delivering you the very latest basketball news.