Rivals can only laugh as Spurs' latest reclamation project thrives

The San Antonio Spurs' offseason to-do list appears to be just about complete, but one overlooked move could be more impactful than many realize. San Antonio wisely extended Julian Champagnie on a 3-year, $45 million deal.

That deal came as a surprise after the Athletic's John Hollinger predicted he'd make at least $20 million per season on his next contract. Not only did San Antonio save at least $5 million annually, but they also retained one of the game's best catch-and-shoot three-point shooters.

To think the Spurs picked him off the scrap heap and now have a 3-point sniper getting paid below his market value must infuriate the rest of the NBA. It's no wonder he continues to get compared to former Spur Danny Green.

However, with all due respect to Green, Champagnie has differentiated himself in a big way after a stellar playoff showing.

Julian Champagnie has more than earned his place on the Spurs

Not only did he shoot lights out from three, nailing 39.6% of his 6.7 3-point attempts per game, but he also proved to be a more well-rounded player. Unlike Green, his shot is far more reliable.

Champagnie even showed that he could capably put the ball on the floor and attack close-outs, something Green could never do. Factor in that he's the team's third-best rebounder and a versatile defender, and San Antonio got an absolute steal of a deal.

With him under contract for the next 3 years, they have successfully developed another former second-round pick. But what should be his role going forward?

Julian Champagnie has unlocked the Spurs' starting lineup

Although the Spurs signed Tobias Harris this summer, San Antonio should start Champagnie next season. San Antonio went a stellar 32-7 in the regular season with him as the full-time starter, and they blew the doors off teams whenever he was on the floor. Why mess with success?

San Antonio had an outstanding +17.3 net rating in the regular season with him starting at power forward. Better yet, the De'Aaron Fox, Stephon Castle, Devin Vassell, Champagnie, and Victor Wembanyama starting five was a terrific +22.3 in net rating during the playoffs.

That's a sample size of more than 60 games, more than enough to conclude that his sharp shooting and versatility make a great team better.

In fact, had they begun the season with Champagnie starting, the Spurs might have finished with a win total in the high 60s. They have a chance to do just that next season and for the foreseeable future. This after locking him in on a fantastic deal that should be the envy of the league.

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