The San Antonio Spurs’ impressive start to the season has somewhat overshadowed the outstanding performance of forward Julian Champagnie. Following an electrifying preseason where he excelled by shooting 19 for 30 from beyond the arc, Champagnie has solidified his status as one of the best value contracts in the NBA.
Standing at 6’8″, Champagnie offers a compelling combination of size and sharpshooting that has made him a crucial component of the Spurs’ roster, especially noted for his contributions on the defensive end. While he may not be considered a lockdown defender, his length and agility render him capable of effectively guarding his position. Furthermore, he has proven to be an above-average rebounder, ranking third on the team with an impressive 6.4 rebounds per game.
Acquired as a free agent midway through the 2022-23 season, Champagnie re-signed with the Spurs on a four-year, $12 million deal that summer, making him a remarkable find for the franchise. With this being the last guaranteed year of his contract, the question of a contract extension is increasingly critical. If he were to enter unrestricted free agency, his market value could skyrocket, potentially earning him four times his current salary.
To prevent losing such a valuable asset, the Spurs should move quickly to extend his contract, ideally offering a four-year, $40 million deal that would keep him in San Antonio through the 2029-30 season. Given the projected salary cap of $157 million for the 2026-27 season, securing Champagnie at this price would be a prudent investment. This strategy mirrors past success stories, such as that of Danny Green, who, during his time with the Spurs, was similarly underpaid and emerged as a vital rotation player.
Champagnie’s versatility adds to his value, as he can competently play both shooting guard and small forward, and his size enables him to function effectively as a small ball four. His shooting ability is particularly crucial for the Spurs, providing them with a much-needed scoring threat from outside. With the anticipated return of key players, Champagnie’s role off the bench will remain significant and impactful.
Overall, Julian Champagnie has demonstrated that he is more than capable of being a three-and-D wing, making a strong case for why the San Antonio Spurs should proactively pursue a long-term, affordable contract extension. By doing so, they can ensure that a promising player who has found his niche in the team remains a critical part of their future success.