Charlotte Hornets rookie forward Tidjane Salaun found himself thrust into a much larger role than anticipated during his first NBA season, largely due to the team’s ongoing injury troubles.
What was expected to be a developmental year quickly turned into a trial by fire, as the 19-year-old was called upon to contribute significant minutes for a struggling Hornets squad.
In a piece by The Charlotte Observer’s Roderick Boone, Salaun’s rookie campaign is described as one filled with both challenges and moments of promise.
Though his season was marked by growing pains – as is common for a teenager transitioning from international play to the NBA – Salaun managed to show flashes of the player he could become, aligning with the vision of Hornets president of basketball operations Jeff Peterson.
“I had a lot of experience during this year,” Salaun reflected. “That was cool, to be around all of these guys, this organization. And yeah, my role was different so I could have more time than I think [was expected] but that was great. All of this experience is going to translate into everything for next season.”
Over 60 games – 10 of them starts – Salaun posted averages of 5.9 points and 4.7 rebounds per game. Modest numbers on paper, but they represent meaningful reps for one of the youngest players in the league.
Jeff Peterson acknowledged the steep learning curve Salaun faced, but said the organization always knew it would take time for him to adjust to the NBA level.
“I would say he had a season that was probably pretty consistent with being the second-youngest player in the NBA,” Peterson said.
“There were some good moments and there were some not-so-good moments. None of that came as a surprise to us. We knew there was going to be a learning curve. You come from the French league and then try to assimilate to this level playing against grown men, it’s hard. It’s really, really hard at this level, and we knew it would take some time.”
Despite the ups and downs, both the Hornets and Salaun appear encouraged by the foundation laid in his rookie year, as he looks to build toward a bigger role in Year 2.
Southeast Notes: Salaun, Mann, Magic Playoff Series, Heat Picks https://t.co/fXn8H9Kxch pic.twitter.com/MnNbaccwG2
— Hoops Rumors (@HoopsRumors) April 25, 2025
