Julian Champagnie Struggles as Spurs Search for Shooting Solutions

San Antonio, Texas – Julian Champagnie came to the San Antonio Spurs with one goal: to be a 3-and-D specialist. While he has shown fans impressive defensive skills this season, his shooting has not met expectations.

In recent games, including one against the Los Angeles Lakers, Champagnie displayed glimpses of brilliance, likened to Vecna from Stranger Things claiming a victim, only to fade again. Critics had already raised concerns about whether the Spurs would have enough shooting to support rising star Victor Wembanyama and the offensive strategies needed for success.

Initially, it looked promising, but the Spurs have since dropped to 15th in three-point efficiency from a top ten ranking. This decline has led to concerns being validated as players struggle to find their rhythm. Champagnie shined during the preseason, boasting an impressive 50% shooting from deep. Fans anticipated a potential career year similar to former Spurs star Danny Green.

Despite this, the realities of the season have set in as Champagnie currently averages just 31% from three-point range. Even though Green also faced challenging shooting years, he had several seasons with higher percentages from 38% to 44% that bolstered his reputation.

Champagnie is not solely responsible for the Spurs’ shooting woes. Teammate Harrison Barnes has found his rhythm, and Keldon Johnson remains strong at 46%. However, other players have struggled, dipping below league averages. Jeremy Sochan sits at 50%, with Lindy Waters III notably at 100% after his debut, but such small sample sizes warrant caution.

Wembanyama has faced aggressive defensive tactics, which has influenced his performance on the court. The Spurs need their shooters to step up. With defenses focusing on Wembanyama, other players must capitalize on this attention. The upcoming game against the Houston Rockets could provide an opportunity for the team to turn things around.