Tidjane Salaun's summer league performance proves Hornets biggest worry

The Charlotte Hornets surprisingly selected Tidjane Salaun with the sixth overall pick in the 2024 NBA Draft. Most predicted Salaun as a mid-first-round selection, but Charlotte clearly believed in his potential. It was shocking to see him taken so high, but Salaun has more than enough upside to deliver.

The 18-year-old averaged 9.7 points, 3.9 rebounds, and 1.1 steals in 23.4 minutes per game for Chloet Basketball in France last season. The teenager was not dominating the French league and expectations should be held in check early. It will be multiple years before Salaun is playing a starter’s role for Charlotte.

The rookie played three games with the Hornets in the Las Vegas summer league. Fans were hoping to see him flash against similar players, but it did not happen. Charlotte knew he was a project, but the 6’9 forward may be further away than expected.

Summer league proves Tidjane Salaun is years away from a significant role with the Hornets

Salaun was not disastrous in Vegas, but he failed to impress. The teenager averaged 9.0 points and 7.0 rebounds in 19.4 minutes per game. He made just one of his ten 3-pointers and displayed his lack of impact. The 6’9 forward did not produce a steal or block and had just one assist over his three contests. Fans were left wanting plenty more against the competition he faced.  

The French forward is at least two years away from being the impactful option Charlotte hopes he blossoms into as the sixth overall pick. Is Salaun more Giannis Antetokounmpo or Thon Maker? The Hornets need him to be a productive role player if they want to snap their eight-year playoff drought. Salaun won’t be ready in year one, but the potential is there.

The teenager is a plus athlete with size and length, but he must improve his jumper, defense, and basketball IQ. Salaun is still rounding out his game and figuring out how to positively impact the game. The potential is clear, but there is a chance he never finds his footing as an NBA rotation player.

The Hornets have young talent but are still trying to figure out how to turn it into a winning group. LaMelo Ball has struggled to stay healthy. Brandon Miller continues to develop, and the franchise may try to tank for another prize in the 2025 draft.

Tidjane Salaun is a key piece of their core and someone the Charlotte Hornets must develop. It will take time, but the Hornets are multiple years away from contending. They must make Salaun worth the wait.