Tidjane Salaün’s G-League Demotion Sparks Reflection on Hornets’ Draft Choices
The narrative surrounding Tidjane Salaün has taken a dramatic turn since the optimism that enveloped his selection in the 2024 NBA Draft. Just eight months ago, expectations were high for the young forward, chosen sixth overall by the Charlotte Hornets. Fast forward to now, and the conversation has shifted toward disappointment and regret, particularly for President of Basketball Operations Jeff Peterson.
A Rocky Start in the NBA
Salaün’s inaugural season in the NBA was fraught with challenges. His performance was underwhelming, averaging a mere 5.9 points per game with shooting percentages that left much to be desired—33.0% from the field and a dismal 28.3% from beyond the arc. The frustration within the organization was palpable, especially as other rookies—like Matas Buzelis of the Chicago Bulls and Donovan Clingan of the Portland Trail Blazers—thrived, showcasing their talent and leaving Salaün’s struggles in stark contrast.
Despite the early setbacks, the Hornets recognized the need for patience with the French prospect. The Summer League offered a glimmer of hope, where he averaged 14 points and 5.7 rebounds over three games, displaying improved shooting efficiency—44.8% from the field and 33.3% from three-point range. More importantly, Salaün’s confidence remained intact; he continued to drive to the rim and seek out opportunities on the court, revealing flashes of the potential that had initially captured the team’s interest.
Hope Fades Amidst Struggles
The beginning of Salaün’s second season seemed promising as he delivered what could be considered the best performance of his career during the Charlotte Hornets’ season opener against the Brooklyn Nets. He recorded 10 points and 4 rebounds while shooting 57.1% from the field and hitting 66.7% of his three-point attempts. This performance hinted at a turning point for the young forward.
However, as quickly as the optimism surged, it dissipated. Over the following six games, Salaün struggled mightily, averaging just 2 points per game with shooting percentages plummeting to 25% from the field and 22% from three. The Hornets faced a tough decision as his inconsistency became increasingly concerning.
The G-League Decision
On November 2nd, the team made the difficult choice to replace Salaün in the rotation with newcomer Pat Connaughton. This move signaled a pivotal moment in his career, as he was sent to the G-League for the first time. While this demotion may serve as a chance for him to refine his skills and regain confidence, it also raises questions about the Hornets’ decision-making during the draft and their commitment to developing young talent.
As Salaün begins this new chapter in the G-League, the Hornets are left to ponder what might have been. The contrast between his journey and the success of his draft peers only heightens the scrutiny surrounding his selection. The organization hopes that this setback can eventually lead to growth, but for now, the path forward remains uncertain.
