Hornets rookie Tidjane Salaün units profession excessive regardless of slender loss to Warmth

The Charlotte Hornets could have fallen to the Miami Warmth 98-94, however rookie ahead Tidjane Salaün stole the present with a career-high efficiency.

Salaün completed the sport with 17 factors on 58% capturing from the sphere, together with three steals. His influence on each ends of the ground was evident, as he introduced vitality and depth to the night.

Salaün’s spectacular three-pointer with 42 seconds left electrified the group and briefly gave the Hornets the lead.

Hornets head coach Charles Lee was impressed with the first-round efficiency, highlighting his defensive efforts.

“Defensively, he did an excellent job of enjoying bodily, guarding guys and holding them in entrance, and a extremely good job of defending with out fouling,” Lee stated. “It’s going to be an additional layer for him to proceed to belief himself. Belief the competition, make them hit robust jumpers.”

Salaün’s offensive recreation took a big leap on the night time, as Lee highlighted his skill to create pictures off the dribble and knock away pictures from past the arc.

“Offensively, we see the overall package deal coming. He has moments the place he can catch and shoot, make a closeout and play the cross very effectively. He continues to develop and I am glad for him,” Lee added.

Salaün’s efficiency is a optimistic signal for the Hornets, who’re constructing and persevering with to develop what is likely one of the youngest groups within the league.

The rookie ahead has proven main brilliance and his continued growth in the proper course will undoubtedly be a key issue within the group’s future.

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