Predicting when every member of Spurs' starting 5 might leave

The San Antonio Spurs hope to jump back into contention quickly. They have not made the playoff since 2019, but finally have their superstar in Victor Wembanyama. The rookie more than lived up to the hype, but the Spurs need more talent around him after winning just 22 games.

They won’t be shy. San Antonio wants to build this up slowly and remain in contention for the next decade-plus, but Wemby may prevent that luxury. The best players want to win. He will put pressure on the organization to improve their roster. Do not be surprised to see the Spurs make a blockbuster move to get a second star, especially with Wemby on his rookie contract.

How different do the Spurs look when they are ready to compete? There will be significant changes until they find a winning formula around their 7’4 superstar. Here is a prediction of when each member of their starting five leaves the franchise.

Julian Champagnie is not long for starting

Champagnie started 59 games this season, which was the fourth-most on the team, despite playing just 19.8 minutes per contest. The 6’8 wing brought some needed floor spacing, but not much else. He produced a 0.0 value over replacement player (VORP) and a well below-average 0.059 win shares per 48. Champagnie turns 23 in June and should improve, but is not an NBA starter.

He is under contract for three more years at just $3 million per season. It is a bargain deal for a developing 6’8 wing. Expect the Spurs to keep him on their roster through that contract, but he should not be the primary starter in the 2024-25 season. Champagnie departs in free agency in the summer of 2027 as he searches for more money on the free agent market.

 He is the first to lose his starting gig, but someone else is the first to depart San Antonio.