Tidjane Salaün Returns to Charlotte Hornets After G-League Stint
The Charlotte Hornets have officially recalled forward Tidjane Salaün from the Greensboro Swarm, concluding his nine-game stint in the G-League. During his time with the Swarm, Salaün averaged 16.2 points, 8.1 rebounds, and 1.1 assists in over 30 minutes per game. Head coach Charles Lee emphasized the importance of this experience for Salaün, particularly in refining his skills in both offensive and defensive play.
Lee highlighted that Salaün’s time in Greensboro allowed him to focus on key defensive techniques, particularly in areas like pick-and-roll coverages. “Defensively, continue to work on some of the techniques of what we’re talking about from a MIG (most important guy),” Lee explained. He noted that Salaün was able to gain valuable in-game experience, which is crucial for his development as a player.
On the offensive end, Lee praised Salaün’s performance, particularly his ability to connect plays and screen effectively. “His screening was really good, his ability to make plays for his teammates… and then even just his ability to drive the ball a little bit better,” Lee added. This feedback reflects the Hornets’ investment in Salaün’s long-term development, as they aim to integrate him more fully into their lineup.
While Salaün’s performance in Greensboro showcased his potential, it also revealed areas for improvement. At times, he struggled to make an impact against high-level competition, but there were moments where he demonstrated his NBA-ready frame and energy. His best game came against the Brooklyn Nets in late October, where he showcased his ability to crash the boards, run the floor, and energize the crowd at the Spectrum Center.
As Salaün re-joins the Hornets, it remains uncertain how significant his role will be. The team’s bench currently lacks size, apart from backup centers Moussa Diabate and Mason Plumlee. Given this context, Salaün could see spot minutes, especially in matchups against teams with larger front courts. The Hornets are set to face the Brooklyn Nets soon, providing Salaün with an opportunity to build on his earlier success against them.
The Hornets’ approach to Salaün’s development reflects a broader strategy regarding their roster, particularly as they navigate the challenges of the NBA season. With the team seeking to regain its footing, Salaün’s integration could play a critical role in their efforts to turn around their performance.
Overall, Charlotte’s focus on nurturing Salaün indicates a commitment to long-term growth, positioning him as a valuable asset for the future. As his journey continues, fans will be eager to see how he applies the lessons learned from his time in Greensboro to his game in the NBA.
