After signing Tobias Harris to a two-year, $31 million deal, the San Antonio Spurs' starting lineup could be shaken up. They have plenty of options.
On Wednesday, the San Antonio Spurs signed Tobias Harris to a two-year, $31 million deal. As soon as the offseason started, the Spurs were linked to several forwards who could share the frontcourt with Victor Wembanyama.
The Spurs missed out on Dean Wade, John Collins, and Sandro Mamukelashvili, leaving only Harris and Rui Hachimura on the table. Both were fine options who can space the floor, rebound, and handle the ball a bit. At the end of the day, the Spurs went with the more seasoned veteran.
Harris' new deal will pay him $15.5 million per year. The Spurs also signed Julian Champagnie to a new contract for the same salary. With De'Aaron Fox, Stephon Castle, Devin Vassell, and Wemby all locked into the starting lineup, the Spurs will have to pick between Champagnie and Harris.
The answer might not be obvious.
Projecting Spurs' Starting Lineup
Last season, with the Detroit Pistons, Harris averaged 13.3 points and 5.1 rebounds while shooting 36.8 percent from 3-point range, all fairly close to his career averages.
Champagnie, meanwhile, was at 11.1 points and 5.8 rebounds, while posting a 38.1 percent mark from 3-point range. Neither are elite defenders, and both would be the fifth option in the starting lineup.
So who do the Spurs start? It depends.
According to official measurements, Harris is one inch taller and nine pounds heavier, but just by looking at them, it's clear that Champagnie is quite a bit smaller. Of course, he's younger and more athletic, but you can't discount old man strength.
When the Spurs play bigger teams, like the Minnesota Timberwolves or Oklahoma City Thunder, expect Harris to get the nod. When banging around down low isn't as much of a priority, Champagnie is the better shooter and open-floor athlete, and he should get the minutes.
All in all, expect Vassell, Harris, and Champagnie to split go-to wing responsibilities, with Keldon Johnson, Carter Bryant, and Harrison Barnes playing a backup role.
By signing Harris, the Spurs bolstered their depth and versatility, all without having to lose a rotation player. While LeBron James is still out there, don't expect the Spurs to make another massive move this summer. The lineup should be set.
