What can Charlotte Hornets followers count on from 2024 No. 1 general decide Tidjane Salaun? Most likely not a lot, as nearly all of his rookie season shall be spent in Greensboro. Nonetheless, right here are some things I count on to see occur this 12 months for the 19-year-old ahead.
I do know I am getting forward of myself right here, proper? Only a few folks imagine Salaun will make an impression proper out of the gate, however some have unreasonable expectations. He’ll begin the season in Charlotte, however will bounce forwards and backwards between the Hornets and the Greensboro Swarm of the G League. Whereas in Charlotte, do not count on him to be within the rotation. His solely minutes will seemingly come late in video games, when the result is already determined.
Salaun’s abilities are going to be an issue for G League gamers. He is so lengthy, quick, and athletic that I would not be shocked if he averages a double-double early on. He’ll have the identical success that Mark Williams did, which has followers wanting to see him formally known as up. The one factor Hornets followers want to bear in mind right here is that Salaun is a long-term mission. There’s completely no rush to develop him provided that he was the youngest participant on this summer time’s draft. He must develop a extra constant shot, and one of the simplest ways to do this is to play him in Greensboro. Sitting on the bench in Charlotte does not do him any good. There’s an opportunity Salaun shall be there for almost all of the season, and that is completely superb.
Salaun shall be used sparingly even within the last months of the Hornets’ common season. There is perhaps nights the place he performs 20 minutes or so, however it will not be frequent. The opposite facet of this isn’t to destroy the child’s confidence earlier than he even begins to scratch the floor of what he can turn out to be. If the Hornets are within the play-in race, they will not be very fascinated with discovering out what Salaun can do in vital video games. Consider this as a redshirt season for the rookie. This 12 months is extra about improvement and making ready for a task sooner or later, not in 2024-25.
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