The San Antonio Spurs have started strong this season, but one crucial player has flown under the radar: forward Julian Champagnie. After an impressive preseason where he shot 19 for 30 from three-point range, Champagnie has emerged as one of the best value contracts in the NBA.
Standing 6-foot-8, his combination of size and sharp shooting makes him an important role player, especially due to his defensive contributions. While not a lockdown defender, he is reliable on defense, using his length and mobility to guard his position effectively. Additionally, he rebounds well, ranking third on the Spurs with 6.4 boards per game.
Players with this skill set and value are rare, yet the Spurs acquired him cheaply. They signed Champagnie as a free agent midway through the 2022-23 season and re-signed him to a 4-year, $12 million contract that summer.
With only one guaranteed year left on his deal, the Spurs face a critical decision: extending Champagnie now or risking losing him in free agency. If he reaches unrestricted free agency, his market value could quadruple, making it difficult for the Spurs to retain him.
The Spurs should proactively offer Champagnie a four-year, $40 million extension. This move would secure his presence in San Antonio through the 2029-30 season and maintain stability on a promising roster.
“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.”
Author's summary: The Spurs need to act quickly to secure Julian Champagnie with a contract extension, preserving a valuable player whose market value is set to rise sharply.