Spurs' ultimate playoff weapon emerged and the 76ers are kicking themselves for it

As the old saying goes, one man's trash is another man's treasure. I use the term "trash" very loosely, because Julian Champagnie is anything but waste. However, the Spurs are still grateful the Philadelphia 76ers found him expendable. He's been a tremendous addition for the Silver and Black, while his former team struggles in the exact areas where the fourth-year shooter thrives.

Jules had already shot and defended his way into the hearts of San Antonio fans everywhere, but the postseason can bring about different challenges. Well, at least for some. The high intensity of the playoffs has only made the twin brother of Justin Champagnie elevate his abilities further, as now he's shooting with Legolas-like accuracy. (Shout out to my Lord of the Rings fans.)

Shooting is too important in today's NBA

Shooting is at a premium in the NBA these days. Boston's entire offensive system is built on jacking up as many as possible. They'll defend on the other end, but when it comes to scoring points, they believe that relying on threes outweighing twos is a strong recipe for success. They've been pretty successful, so you can't really argue against the strategy other than to criticize the entertainment value.

And while there's more than one way to skin a basketball (I know, right), every team wants the element of a three-point threat on their team. The Spurs have relied on their defense and interior scoring to drive most of their success. Their aggression gets them to the free-throw line and keeps opponents on their heels.

That wouldn't work as well without a marksman or two on the outside to keep teams honest. Look at Philly and San Antonio right now.

The Spurs' offense benefits greatly from the space Champagnie creates

Tyrese Maxey and VJ Edgecomb are dynamite athletically. Their speed and shiftiness get them into the paint almost at will, but they don't have reliable shooters on the outside to kick the ball to. They're shooting 34% from three, and it's one of several reasons they're down 3-2 and on the brink of elimination.

The Spurs not only have three guards who can also wreak havoc in the lane but also a 7'4" titan who can do the same. Space is also paramount for them, and thankfully, Champagnie is there making 62% of his postseason three-pointers. He's been steady all season, but this kind of shooting is eye-popping.

Every team in the league should want to have this. One team could have had it. Instead of keeping and molding Jules, the 76ers opted to waive him for Mac McClung. The explosive dunker lasted about two months on the roster and hasn't settled into a roster since. Champagnie, on the other hand, has found a home, his career resume is growing, and he's helping a contender go for a championship.

Things worked out pretty well for him... and the Spurs.

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