Charlotte Hornets rookie Tidjane Salaun finally saw action in an NBA game on Saturday, although he played an uneventful nine minutes against the Miami Heat.
That he didn't get some burn in the team's first two contests was quite a cause for concern. His supposed strengths, particularly his versatility and energy, could have been useful for the Hornets, who started both matches poorly.
It appears the rookie may have been nursing an injury, as he has been seen wearing a splint around his left index and middle fingers.
A strong case for Tidjane Salaun getting more playing time
Against the Heat, coach Charles Lee subbed Salaun with 5:21 left on the clock in the first quarter. Perhaps it was only fitting that the 19-year-old's debut came in front of the CLT crowd. Unfortunately, it went downhill for the Hornets as soon as he clocked in.
At that point, they were leading 14-7. However, Miami went on a 10-1 run, and Salaun couldn't register a single stat except a plus/minus of -9.
He eventually finished the evening with one rebound and one steal, missing his only field-goal attempt, which came from beyond the arc. There isn't a need to grade his professional debut, as it isn't exactly what you're looking for from a top-six pick. In addition, it failed to prove that the youngster deserves a rotation spot.
On the flip side, his laying of an egg may actually be evidence that Lee should entrust him with more playing time.
The notion might seem counterintuitive because the Hornets want to be as competitive as possible. But if they have their sights set on long-term success, developing Salaun should be one of the thrusts this season. He has the tools and potential to be a franchise cornerstone, although it would be easier for him to fulfill that by being granted the freedom to play through his mistakes and see where he stacks up against the competition.
It appears the rookie head coach is willing to stay patient with Salaun after he showered his ward with high praises on Saturday. Among the qualities Lee mentioned about him were his energy, effort, and fearlessness.
So, Hornets fans should be even-tempered when it comes to Salaun, even if his suiting up doesn't translate to wins. After all, the reward could be his earlier-than-anticipated development and the organization retaining its 2025 draft pick if it misses the playoffs.
And if the second-generation hoopster turns out to be a detriment to Charlotte's goals, it could always assign him to the G League.