Spurs Must Make Their Easiest Roster Decision Soon
The San Antonio Spurs’ impressive start to the season has somewhat overshadowed the important contributions of forward Julian Champagnie, whose future with the team remains uncertain.
After an exceptional preseason where he hit 19 of 30 shots from beyond the arc, Champagnie has proven to be one of the NBA’s best value contracts. His mix of size at 6-foot-8 and reliable shooting has solidified his role as an efficient and versatile contributor.
Defensively, Champagnie may not be elite, but he provides solid effort and consistency. His length and quickness make him a dependable defender who can stay in front of his assignment and rebound effectively. He currently ranks third on the team with 6.4 rebounds per game—an impressive mark for his role.
The Spurs originally signed him as a free agent midway through the 2022–23 season, later securing him to a four-year, $12 million contract. This savvy move gave San Antonio a low-cost, high-value asset that has continued to exceed expectations.
“With him entering the final guaranteed year of his deal, the Spurs should seriously consider an extension before he reaches free agency.”
Allowing Champagnie to test the open market could see him earn up to four times his current salary. To avoid that risk, the Spurs may need to act quickly—offering a potential four-year, $40 million extension that would keep him in San Antonio through the 2029–30 season.
Author’s Summary
Julian Champagnie’s rise makes him indispensable for San Antonio, and the Spurs should secure him long-term before his value skyrockets on the open market.