An important question was tackled this week on The Hockey Show.
Like many hockey fans, THS co-hosts Roy Bellamy and David Dwork would like an explanation from an expert on what exactly goaltending interference is in the NHL.
To break down goalie interference, and also to discuss some of the controversial penalties that have occurred lately in the league, Roy and David welcomed former NHL referee and current ESPN Rules Analyst Dave Jackson to The Hockey Show.
Also on the latest episode was a chat about the Florida Panthers having an efficient tank, and how even amid all their struggles, the Panthers still found a way to go into Edmonton and crush an Oilers squad trying to rack up every point they can get in a very tightly contested Western Conference playoff race.
This week’s wins and fails included a very unlucky Montreal Canadiens fan attending a Maple Leafs-Islanders game in Toronto, a nice job of rage-baiting by Philadelphia’s Matvei Michkov, an amazing 30 seconds during an ECHL game that gave us a pretty goal, fun celly and line brawl, and a hockey-related fashion faux pas by Team USA at the World Baseball Classic.
You can check out the full episode and interview in the videos below:
MIAMI, FL - MARCH 17: Aaron Judge #99 of Team USA looks on during the 2026 World Baseball Classic Championship game presented by Capital One between Team Venezuela and Team USA at loanDepot Park on Tuesday, March 17, 2026 in Miami, Florida. (Photo by Scott Audette/WBCI/MLB Photos via Getty Images) | MLB Photos via Getty Images
Good afternoon everyone, it’s time to dive back into the mailbag and answer some of your questions. Remember to send in your questions for our weekly call by e-mail to pinstripealleyblog [at] gmail [dot] com.
LocalBlueWhaleRuinsEverything asks:Judge is getting pretty well-flamed online for his poor performance in the WBC. How seriously should we take those stats compared to, say, his post-season performances?
Even less serious than the postseason narrative, which is to say not that much. Judge’s overall performance in the WBC was more than adequate, posting an .845 OPS with two homers and five RBI in seven games played — and those are the numbers after he went 0-for in the finale. That’s the equivalent of a single drawn out round of postseason play in the Championship Series or World Series, and that performance wouldn’t be enough to draw the blame for anyone except for a player of Judge’s status (and for that matter, it’s a better line than Judge posted in the ALCS or World Series in 2024).
Judge’s overall postseason track record is certainly less than his regular season excellence, but even there it’s not as bad as it’s made out to be: a career .822 OPS with 17 homers and 41 RBI in 65 games. There have been highs — his most recent performance in 2025 was dominant, his first taste of October was more than fine in 2017, and the Yankees’ short stay in the 2018 playoffs could in no way be blamed on Judge and his 1.447 OPS in the ALDS. But there have certainly been lows, most notably that 2024 run up until the infamous Game 5 against the Dodgers and a rather dreadful 2022 performance that saw them get bounced by their nemesis in Houston.
All of this to say, that Judge’s overall numbers are far from the narrative that he’s a playoff choker. Did he have a good game in the championship against Venezuela? No, far from it — but the US superteam at large was getting shut down by Eduardo Rodriguez for 4.1 innings, and that man’s run an ERA north of five for the last two seasons. The US lineup in general never got going in this tournament outside of their initial blowouts against Brazil and Great Britain, and Judge was one of the few bats alive enough to beat Mexico and force that three-way tie atop their group. There hasn’t been an extended run where Judge has stayed on a heater like he has for some of these individual series or matches, and if he gets one then I think the narrative would be broken, but until then any singular big game flop will be enough to bring out the hecklers.
The idiot that said, “Harper is coming” asks:Who makes money off the WBC? I have to assume players and MLB make some money, I’m curious how it’s distributed.
The tournament drew a massive pot of cash this year, reportedly offering a $37 million prize pool to the participants when all was said and done thanks in large part to a $100 million broadcasting rights deal that Netflix struck to cover the games in Japan. That pool is then divided up to each competing team with a starting payout of $750,000 and scaling up for each round that teams advanced through. Once a team’s placement has been finalized, their payout is then evenly split between their team federation (which pays for the coaches and staff) and the players on the team, with Venezuela getting the biggest cut for winning it all at a $6.75 million payout.
As for the overall profit generated from the tournament, The Athletic reports that there’s a one-third split going to MLB, one third to the player’s union, and a third split to a trio of other organizations: the World Baseball Softball Organization, the KBO, and the NPB.
OLDY MOLDY asks:Will there be inning limits on Schlittler?
I doubt it, for a couple of reasons. First, Schlittler ended up throwing a combined 149.2 regular season innings last season split between the minors and the majors, a 29-inning increase in workload from his 2024 setting himself up nicely to push towards the 170-180 inning range for 2026. That’s probably about how much the Yankees would love for Schlittler to handle this year, so no real need to manage his innings on a day-to-day basis. On top of that, Schlitter’s slow start to spring while handling his sore back puts him in the position to potentially get skipped over a couple times while the team only needs four starters in the opening weeks of the season, further reducing the need to worry about his season-long workload.
SCOTTSDALE, ARIZONA - MARCH 12: Jordan Lawlar #10 of the Arizona Diamondbacks signs autographs before a Spring Training game against the Colorado Rockies at Salt River Fields at Talking Stick on March 12, 2026 in Scottsdale, Arizona. (Photo by John E. Moore III/Getty Images) | Getty Images
We’re now less than a week from Opening Day, and things are certainly coming into focus. While spring training statistics are basically useless in terms of predictive value, when has that ever stopped anyone from looking at them and drawing conclusions? So, based on the Cactus League results so far, here are three players – a hitter, a starting pitcher and a reliever – whose stock seems to have risen as a result of their performance, and three others about whom there might be reason for concern.
Three up
Jordan Lawlar
There are a few candidates here: Alek Thomas, Jorge Barrosa and Jose Fernandez all have an OPS over 1.000. Lawlar is right there with them, his triple-slash being .293/.420/.610 for a 1.030 OPS. But he was also having to learn a whole new position, playing the outfield for almost the first time in his professional career. He has done well: he committed his first error the other day, but a couple of hitters later, made a highlight reel play. Lawlar has played so well, it leaves Torey Lovullo with a tricky decision: should he or Thomas play CF? “They’re running balls down out there. They’re going out there and playing solid defense. Who gets to start in center or left, I haven’t figured that out.”
Of the two dozen D-backs’ pitchers to have thrown at least five innings this spring, there is only one who has yet to allow an earned run: Morillo. Across 7.1 innings, he has eight strikeouts, compared to only two walks, and so far has held opposing hitters to a .167 average. It’s numbers which compare very well, in a similar sample size, to more established relievers like Ryan Thompson or Jonathan Loaisiga. It’s easy to forget Morillo appeared 42 times for Arizona last year, a number surpassed only by Thompson and Jalen Beeks, with an ERA+ of 104. He may end up squeezed out of the Opening Day roster for “veteran presence.” However, I predict it won’t be long before he’s on the bus up from Reno.
Three down
Corbin Carroll
Spring had barely started, when Carroll had to go on the back burner, after fracturing the hamate bone in his hand while swinging. This was initially expected to rule him out for Opening Day, but he set a near-record pace for recovery, returning to the line-up less than four weeks after surgery. The concern is whether the surgery might have a lingering impact, particularly on his power. Although the data doesn’t support that, he has got off to a slow start since his return. Carroll is 2-for-12 with no walks and four strikeouts. While he did hit his first home-run on Wednesday against the Cubs, his OPS to date is only .583. Hopefully, it’s just a case of lingering winter rust being knocked off.
Merrill Kelly
As with Carroll, the issue here is probably as much a health concern as anything. He is no longer feeling any problems with his back, the area which forced him into a late spring start and out of Opening Day. However, Merrill still thinks he will need to start the year on the Injured List. He has made two starts so far, and the results haven’t been good: 11 hits across 4.1 innings with just one strikeout. Though it is true Kelly will be behind opposing hitters in terms of workload, so that may be responsible. The bottom line is, a healthy and effective Merrill is almost essential for the Diamondbacks to have a chance this year. We haven’t enjoyed that so far this pre-season.
Kade Strowd
There are several candidates here. Kevin Ginkel and Brandyn Garcia also have spring ERAs in double digits, rocking chances for an Opening Day spot. But neither were traded this winter for a fan favorite. Strowd came from the Orioles for Blaze Alexander, and expectations were he would be able to contribute immediately to the beleaguered D-backs bullpen. Stroud has been missing some bats, with nine strikeouts over 7.2 innings. But he has also been missing the strikezone, issuing five walks. Add in eleven hits, including two home-runs, and you’re looking at an ugly 10.57 ERA. He has begun to fall off roster projections. Blaze, meanwhile, is expected to start for Baltimore on Opening Day.
Jul 24, 2024; Arlington, Texas, USA; Texas Rangers first round draft pick Malcolm Moore throws out the first pitch before the game against the Chicago White Sox at Globe Life Field. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images
A group of Texas Rangers prospects take on a group of Kansas City Royals prospects in this year’s Spring Breakout contest where the Rangers farmhands will be the home team at Surprise Stadium.
Here’s a look at which prospects Texas has available today, including their MLB Pipeline rankings:
PITCHERS (8) Ismael Agreda, RHP, No. 28 Wilian Bormie, RHP, NR Gavin Collyer, RHP, No. 30 Aidan Curry, RHP, NR Joey Danielson, RHP, NR Eric Loomis, RHP, NR Dalton Pence, LHP, No. 12 Josh Trentadue, LHP, No. 23
The Cyclones player landed landed awkwardly after going up for a layup attempt less than three minutes into the contest, appearing to twist his ankle as he landed. He had to be helped off the floor by support staff as he was unable to put any weight on his left foot. Jefferson went straight to the locker room after the incident.
Iowa State's Joshua Jefferson was helped off the floor after an apparent ankle injury pic.twitter.com/R4xaFzgsJU
— CBS Sports College Basketball 🏀 (@CBSSportsCBB) March 20, 2026
Joshua Jefferson injury update
Jefferson has not return to the game against the Tigers, and it doesn't look like he will.
Around the 11-minute mark in the first half, the broadcast showed Jefferson on crutches going into a room in the arena.
It's unknown the severity of the injury but it can be a brutal one for an Iowa State team trying to reach its first Final Four since 1944. Jefferson is a dynamic player for the Cyclones, averaging 16.6 points, 7.4 rebounds and 5.0 assists per game. He has two triple doubles this season.
The Mets lost to the Cardinals, 4-3, on Friday as their spring training slate continued.
Here are the takeaways...
-Carson Benge drew a walk his first time up and poked a single to the left side in the sixth inning. He is hitting .412 with a .987 OPS in Grapefruit League play.
The Mets haven't yet announced the plan for Benge when camp breaks, but it will be shocking if he isn't the starting right fielder on Opening Day.
-Bo Bichette got the start at shortstop in order to stay sharp at the position in the event the Mets don't carry a backup at the position. At the plate, Bichette went 0-for-2.
- Tobias Myers was solid, allowing one run (on an opposite-field home run) while walking one and striking out two in 2.0 innings. He is expected to open the season in the bullpen.
- Luke Weaver worked around a hit and struck out one in a scoreless inning.
- Brooks Raley danced around two hits to escape his inning unscathed.
- Bryan Hudson, perhaps the favorite for the final spot in the bullpen, struggled. He allowed three runs on one hit while walking two in 1.0 inning. His ERA this spring is 16.20
- Mark Vientos' cold spring at the plate continued, as he went 0-for-3 with a strikeout.
The Oklahoma City Thunder are in our nation's capital this weekend for a game against the Washington Wizards, but the Thunder players will not be visiting the White House to celebrate their title last June, reports Joel Lorenzi of The Athletic.
"We have been in touch with the White House and we are appreciative and grateful for the communication we have had, but the timing just didn't work out," the Thunder said in a statement shared with The Athletic.
President Donald Trump is in Washington for part of Friday, but according to his official schedule, he is flying to Mar-a-Lago in Florida later in the day and will not be around for the weekend.
There was a long tradition of the champions of the United States' major professional sports teams visiting the White House to celebrate their accomplishment, regardless of which party was in power at the time. However, in our deeply divided nation right now, that tradition has gone out the window (like many others). For example, after the recent Milan Cortina Olympics, the USA Gold Medal winning men's hockey team did visit President Trump to celebrate their dramatic win, but the USA Gold Medal winning women declined that request.
With the NBA, during President Trump's first term, the 2017 Golden State Warriors refused an invitation to visit (or, as the White House would have it, had their invitation revoked). Other teams in other sports have followed suit. The Boston Celtics visited President Biden after their 2024 win, but the Thunder will not be going this year.
CAGLIARI, Italy (AP) — Napoli won at Cagliari 1-0 and moved into second place in Serie A on Friday.
A Scott McTominay goal after just 90 seconds proved to be decisive in a game the visitor dominated.
The Scotland international tapped in a loose ball after a cross from the right fell at his feet, and the lead was never challenged by a side that did not have a shot on target in the entire match.
It was the fourth win in a row for Antonio Conte’s men.
The win lifted Napoli two points above third-placed AC Milan, which plays Torino on Saturday. League leader Inter Milan is at Fiorentina on Sunday.
Cagliari’s winless league run was extended to seven games dating to the end of January. It remained in 15th place, but with only eight rounds remaining it could easily be dragged into the relegation battle. It was six points above the drop zone with the five teams below it all having a game in hand.
In another piece of good news for Conte, Belgium international Kevin De Bruyne played 90 minutes for the first time since injuring a hamstring last October.
MESA, AZ - NOVEMBER 09: Blake Mitchell #8 of the Kansas City Royals hits a double in the second inning during the 2025 Arizona Fall League Fall Stars game between the American League Fall Stars and the National League Fall Stars at Sloan Park on Sunday, November 9, 2025 in Mesa, Arizona. (Photo by Norm Hall/MLB Photos via Getty Images) | MLB Photos via Getty Images
At 3 PM Kansas City time, the Royals and Rangers prospects will kick off a Spring Breakout game, meant to highlight what the two farm systems have to offer. The rosters have been set, but here is the starting lineup for that game:
For many Royals fans, this will be the first opportunity to see last year’s first-round draft picks Sean Gamble and Josh Hammond in action, playing the positions they’re projected to play when they reach the bigs. Lefty pitcher Justin Lamkin was a Competitive Balance Round B pick, so he was taken early in that draft as well. Everyone in that lineup is a top-30 prospect for the Royals, with the lone exception of Carson Roccaforte, who has nonetheless excelled in the minors. It’s available to watch for free at Royals TV and it should be a lot of fun.
In the evening, a lot of Kansas City’s regulars will be in lineup for the penultimate Cactus League game against the Giants:
The only guy missing from a lineup that seems like it could be very similar to the one we will spend most of the year watching is Carter Jensen, who caught last night, and so gets tonight off. Luca Tresh, the Royals’ Spring Training home run leader, will start at catcher and bat ninth. Unfortunately, though not unexpectedly, this game won’t be televised and it won’t be on the radio either, but you can listen to it online at royals.com or with your MLB app.
It’s good to see Bobby Witt Jr., Salvador Perez, and Maikel Garcia back in the lineup after their adventures in the WBC. Here’s hoping they play some more palatable spring ball than we were able to get without them.
The Chicago Blackhawks have made a roster move, as they have called up forward Dominic Toninato from their American Hockey League (AHL) affiliate, the Rockford IceHogs.
Toninato has played in five games this season with the Blackhawks, where he has recorded one assist, four penalty minutes, 10 hits, and a plus-1 rating. His most recent appearance with the Blackhawks was on Dec. 27 against the Dallas Stars.
Toninato has spent the majority of this season in the AHL with the IceHogs. The 32-year-old forward has been a nice part of the AHL club's roster, as he has recorded 16 goals, 27 assists, 43 points, and 57 penalty minutes in 52 games.
Toninato was selected by the Toronto Maple Leafs with the 126th overall pick of the 2012 NHL Entry Draft. In 194 career NHL games over nine seasons split between the Colorado Avalanche, Florida Panthers, Winnipeg Jets, and Blackhawks, he has recorded 13 goals, 23 assists, 36 points, 226 hits, and a plus-13 rating.
The Toronto Raptors have put together a much-needed three-game winning streak, thanks in part to a red-hot Brandon Ingram.
But the Raps will need him to stay hot if they want to keep up with Nikola Jokic and the high-powered Denver Nuggets offense.
My Raptors vs. Nuggets predictions expect a tight battle, meaning this spread is just a little too big.
That and more NBA picks for this matchup set to tip off at 9:00 pm ET at Ball Arena in Denver, on Friday, March 20.
Raptors vs Nuggets prediction
Raptors vs Nuggets best bet: Raptors +7 (-110)
Brandon Ingram has been a big part of the Toronto Raptors' win streak, putting up 36, 34, and 18 points while shooting nearly 60% from the floor.
He and the Raptors should keep putting in work against a Denver Nuggets defense that ranks 21st in defensive rating.
Nikola Jokic and the Nuggets are tough to stop, but Toronto’s eighth-ranked defense should be able to keep this game competitive.
The Raptors will likely do what they always do: give fans hope they can win before giving it away late. Even so, that’s likely enough to cover a 7-point spread.
Raptors vs Nuggets same-game parlay
Ingram has topped this number in three of his last four games, and the only reason he didn’t in the Raptors’ last game was that they were beating the Chicago Bulls so badly he didn’t need to play much late.
The other way the Raptors stay competitive in this game is by moving the ball. Toronto has one of the highest assist rates in the NBA, while Denver ranks 21st in opponent assists per possession.
I’m taking Scottie Barnes Over 4.5 assists. He averages 5.1 per game, and dished out 10 times the last time the Raptors played the Nuggets.
Raptors vs Nuggets SGP
Raptors +7
Brandon Ingram Over 21.5 points
Scottie Barnes Over 4.5 assists
Our "from downtown" SGP: Dino Dimes
Passing the ball will be the key to the Raptors keeping this game close, so let's jump on them to dish out the dimes.
Raptors vs Nuggets SGP
Scottie Barnes Over 4.5 assists
Brandon Ingram Over 3.5 assists
Immanuel Quickley Over 6.5 assists
Jamal Shead Over 4.5 assists
Raptors vs Nuggets odds
Spread: Raptors +7 | Nuggets -7
Moneyline: Raptors +220 | Nuggets -270
Over/Under: Over 238.5 | Under 238.5
Raptors vs Nuggets betting trend to know
The Nuggets have only covered the 2H spread in nine of their last 30 home games (-15.07 Units / -43% ROI). Find more NBA betting trends for Raptors vs. Nuggets.
How to watch Raptors vs Nuggets
Location
Ball Arena, Denver, CO
Date
Friday, March 20, 2026
Tip-off
9:00 p.m. ET
TV
SN, ALT2
Raptors vs Nuggets latest injuries
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JUPITER, FLORIDA - FEBRUARY 25: Hunter Brown #58 of the Houston Astros throws a pitch during a spring training game against the Miami Marlins at Roger Dean Stadium on February 25, 2026 in Jupiter, Florida. (Photo by Rich Storry/Getty Images) | Getty Images
The Houston Astros (10-12-3) host the Miami Marlins (8-12-3) in Grapefruit League play.
RHP Hunter Brown (0-0) will make his fourth start in an official Spring game tonight as he takes on Marlins RHP Eury Perez (0-1).
BROTHER BROWN: In his three previous official Spring starts, RHP Hunter Brown has allowed one run and just two hits in 8.2 innings of work for a 1.04 ERA. Earlier in Spring Training, Astros Manager Joe Espada announced that Brown will be the Astros Opening Day starter on March 26 vs. LAA.
Brown was a 2025 All-Star and finished third in the AL in Cy Young voting after turning in the best season of his career with a 12-9 record and a 2.43 ERA (50ER/185.1IP). Among AL starters, he ranked first in opponent SLG (.318) and second in ERA (2.43). He was named the AL Pitcher of the Month for June after going 1-0 with a 1.19 ERA (4ER/30.1IP) in five starts.
TONIGHT’S POTENTIAL RELIEVERS: LHP Bryan King, RHP Bryan Abreu, RHP Christian Roa, RHP Enyel De Los Santos, RHP Logan VanWey, RHP Amicar Chirinos, RHP Alex Santos.
VS. THE FISH: Tonight is the sixth and final matchup between the Astros and Marlins this Spring. HOU is 4-1 thus far vs. MIA.
The Astros prospects also defeated MIA in yesterday’s Breakout Game, 7-6.
In the regular season, MIA will vist the Astros for a three-game series at Daikin Park, July 20-22.
PITCHING IN: The Astros have posted a 3.33 Team ERA (80ER/216.1IP) this Spring, which ranks second in the Majors.
TRIUMPHANT RETURN: Astros bench coach Omar Lopez rejoined the club yesterday afternoon, fresh off of managing Team Venezuela to its first WBC championship.
Game Info
Game Date/Time: Friday, March 20, 5:05 p.m. CST
Location: CACTI Park of the Palm Beaches, West Palm Beach, FL
After Allen Graves hit a go-ahead 3-pointer for Santa Clara with 2.4 seconds left, Broncos coach Herb Sendek tried to call a timeout, likely wanting to set up his defense for Kentucky's last shot. While the CBS broadcast caught it, the referees didn't appear to see it and didn't award the timeout.
Kentucky's Otega Oweh instead hit a stunning 3-point buzzer beater from the March Madness logo to force overtime. While there's no telling if that happens or not if Santa Clara got its timeout, the Broncos could have had a chance to defend the final play more efficiently.
"Well, I unequivocally called timeout. But they didn't grant it," Sendek said. "I think the video evidence is clear, and anybody is able to pull it up. So, you know, is a likely response after Allen hits the three that the coach would be calling timeout to set the defense, which I tried to do, and I was successful in doing, other than it wasn't acknowledged or recognized. So that's what happened."
CBS studio analyst Bruce Pearl said Sendek could have gone slightly on the court to alert the officials, but one of them should've noticed the call.
With the Wildcats up by two points in the final minute of overtime, they were able to block a potential game-tying shot from Santa Clara's Sash Gavalyugov, leading to a loose ball. Oweh grabbed it and threw it ahead to Brandon Garrison for the dunk to make it a two-possession game and get the distance it needed for the win.
A replay of the play appeared to show Oweh took more than two steps without dribbling the ball, which should result in a travel. On the CBS broadcast, play-by-play man Spero Dedes said rules analyst Gene Steratore told them Oweh should have been called for traveling.
The controversial no call did have an effect, with the Wildcats winning 89-84.
Otega Oweh travel reactions
People on social media believed officials cost Santa Clara a huge March Madness upset. Here's a sampling of some reactions:
That’s wild, Santa Clara calls timeout but the ref ignores it.
A recent stretch of inconsistent play has exposed vulnerabilities, and with a demanding road trip against strong Pacific Division opponents on the horizon, every game will test their ability to regain form and reassert themselves as legitimate contenders.
The Golden Knights are mired in a 3-7-0 stretch over their last 10 games, searching for consistency at a pivotal point in the season. Recent performances have highlighted several recurring issues, including defensive lapses, inconsistent puck management, and an inability to sustain momentum within games. These problems have contributed to a stretch of play that falls short of the standard expected from a contending team.
The upcoming matchup against the Nashville Predators presents an immediate test. Despite roster changes, the Predators remain a competitive group, driven by structured forechecking and opportunistic scoring. Their ability to generate offense from multiple areas of the lineup makes them particularly dangerous, especially against teams that struggle with defensive coverage and discipline.
For Vegas, addressing these shortcomings must begin with improved defensive structure. Limiting high-danger opportunities, maintaining positioning in the defensive zone, and reducing unnecessary penalties will be essential. In prior meetings, lapses in these areas have allowed Nashville to capitalize quickly and shift momentum.
Although the Predators have lost three of their last four games to the Golden Knights, mistakes can accumulate quickly, and in the NHL, any team can beat anyone on any given night.
Equally important is a more consistent offensive approach. The Golden Knights have shown they are most effective when scoring contributions extend beyond the top line. Secondary scoring—from depth forwards and the blue line—can alleviate pressure on primary playmakers and create a more balanced attack. Generating sustained zone time and establishing a stronger net-front presence will also be key in breaking through opposing defenses.
Goaltending Stability and Organizational Considerations
Goaltending stability will play a significant role as well. Timely saves, particularly during momentum swings, can help the team reset and avoid extended periods of defensive-zone pressure. Adin Hill is a Stanley Cup champion, but he is no longer conditioned to handle six consecutive starts.
General manager Kelly McCrimmon should consider drafting a goaltender in the upcoming NHL Entry Draft or exploring upgrades through free agency. With cap space adjustments, bolstering the position should be a priority. Carter Hart has proven inconsistent and has struggled with injuries, making him an unreliable long-term solution in net.
Carter Hart has spent a lot of time on the ice this year -- in pain.
The Golden Knights (31-24-14) have a clear opportunity to kickstart their winning ways Saturday at 11 a.m. local time when they face the Predators (31-28-9) at Bridgestone Arena. Execution, balance, and stability—both in net and across the lineup—will determine whether Vegas can turn this stretch around.
SAN ANTONIO, TX - MARCH 19: Julian Champagnie #30 of the San Antonio Spurs shoots the ball during the game against the Phoenix Suns on March 19, 2026 at the Frost Bank Center in San Antonio, Texas. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2026 NBAE (Photos by Michael Gonzales/NBAE via Getty Images) | NBAE via Getty Images
Julian Champagnie is having a career year and has been one of the steady role players who have helped the San Antonio Spurs have their best season since 2016-17. He’s come a long way since going undrafted in 2022 and being waived as a rookie, serving as another example of a player development system that works.
He’s in his fourth season, averaging the fifth-most minutes per game on the team (27.8), and his style as a knockdown shooter fits anywhere. Still, he’s more than that as 31.7 percent of his shots are two-pointers, he rebounds well and he is not a liability on defense. Don’t forget that he’s been a key piece of the team’s most-used lineup this season: the one including De’Aaron Fox, Devin Vassell, Stephon Castle, Victor Wembanyama and Champagnie, is the 16th most-used lineup in the league.
It says a lot about his basketball character that he’s a necessity on a contender. Being a seamless fit with the starters has made it possible for the team to preserve the talents of veteran Harrison Barnes. This all begs the question, where would Champagnie go in a re-draft?
He was once asked to assess his game before becoming a pro and he said, “I kind of fill roles on the court.” He elaborated a bit, saying he was more of a shooter than his brother Justin, who prefers to play the power game.
His production mirrors that of a mid-to-late first-round pick, which aligns with where I predict he would go if it was redone today, which is 17th. He is third in made 3-pointers, fifth in effective field goal percentage (55.9), 12th in points and 16th in rebounds in his draft class. All of this makes him more reliable and impactful than 70 percent of the picks, aside from him being an excellent mover without the ball.
When examining further, Andrew Nembhard and Ryan Rollins were the only second-rounders chosen that can be definitively taken over Champagnie since they are better scorers. Still, for the purpose of this exercise, they were re-slotted into the top seven and 14, leaving no one in round two more productive than Champagnie. To boot, anyone who has earned a starting rotation spot brings value that it way above a second-rounder.
Moreover, he’s one of the most lethal shooters in the NBA when given space, making 47.6 percent of wide-open 3-point shots, which NBA describes as having six feet or more of space. Of course, he’s in the perfect situation being next to two great penetrators and a control tower who does it all, and lots of his shots come from a pass to the corner/wing or one outside following an offensive rebound. He also does a good job of getting open in transition, helping the team with unscripted plays that do lots of damage. In many ways, Champagnie is a security blanket.
His marksmanship set a franchise record, making 11 3-pointers on Dec. 31 against the New York Knicks. Stephen Curry and Trey Murphy III are the only players to have made more in a game this season (12).
He is averaging more minutes than 18 2022 first-rounders and is sixth in total minutes. Even being older by modern standards, debuting his career at age 21, shouldn’t have made him fall so much on draft night. Quality players slipping through the cracks happens more often than it should.
The next step for him is to improve his passing out of a two-man action. He’s not catching opponents by surprise anymore, so adding the slip-back pass to prevent a trap on a dribble handoff would be useful.
Finding players like him, and signing them for the low, can make a significant difference for a team’s flexibility. Just for perspective, the Miami Heat drafted Nikola Jović 27th in 2022 and paid him based on potential with a four-year extension worth $62.4 million. He was one of the 12 players from the 2022 draft who got a new deal before the season and, sadly for them, he’s barely an NBA player with availability issues, making his contract unmovable for now.
The Spurs are in the opposite situation with Champagine. I’m not saying the Spurs were scheming for a trade at the deadline, but if they wanted to make a splash, opposing squads would have presumably demanded that he be included in the deal because his production so much outweighs his $3 million salary.
Another one of the valuable things he does well is screen for his teammates. Granted, some of those are ghost screens, but he is third behind Luke Kornet and Wembanyama in screen assists and screen assist points on the team. This hustle extends to the other side since he is second in the league among forwards in defensive loose balls recovered. His 6’ 10 wingspan helps him track those down as well as when closing out to shooters.
