2. Find a role for Justin Champagnie
The Raptors had a ferocious preseason competition, but Champagnie ended up winning out over Josh Jackson and DJ Wilson. Even though he came to the Raptors as an undrafted two-way, it soon became clear that Toronto had unearthed a long-term contributor in the NBA.
While there are still some very legitimate concerns about his offensive game, Champagnie has already shown he can be a terrific rebounder and defender at this level. This exact situation is the entire reason why you bring Champagnie back and give him a multi-year contract.
Will the Toronto Raptors use Justin Champagnie?
The only way to find out if Champagnie’s shot will translate to the NBA is to throw him out there. I’d much rather see him than Juancho Hernangomez, who has been a horrid defender and bad shooter so far. When push comes to shove, Nurse has often gone with the younger player.
Champagnie has been yo-yoing up and down between the G League and the NBA this year, but he may need to put his developmental time on hold in order to help the Raptors in the short-term. A fan favorite who can pull down boards, Achiuwa’s rebounding could be replicated by Champagnie.