Spurs Face Key Roster Decision on Julian Champagnie
The San Antonio Spurs have started the season strong, but the significant contributions of forward Julian Champagnie have been somewhat overlooked. After a remarkable preseason shooting 19 for 30 from three-point range, Champagnie has quickly become one of the NBA's best value contracts.
Champagnie's Impact on Both Ends
Standing 6-foot-8 with excellent shooting skills, Champagnie plays a vital role for the Spurs, particularly on defense. Although not a lockdown defender, he is reliable and difficult to exploit. His length and agility help him guard his position effectively, and he is a strong rebounder, ranking third on the team with 6.4 rebounds per game.
Contract and Future Prospects
Champagnie was acquired as a free agent midway through the 2022–23 season and re-signed that summer to a four-year, $12 million contract. With only one guaranteed year remaining on his deal, an extension appears to be a logical step.
"If he were to hit unrestricted free agency, then he could earn at least four times what he is making now, and the Spurs shouldn't let it get to that point."
The Spurs should consider offering a four-year, $40 million extension to retain Champagnie through the 2029–30 season, securing a valuable and versatile player at a fair price.
Author's Summary
The Spurs must act quickly to extend Julian Champagnie, whose blend of size, shooting, and defense makes him an undervalued asset worth securing long-term.