In his second start, Tidjane Salaun almost became the hero for the Charlotte Hornets, but Tyler Herro from the Heat had other plans.
Game Highlights:
Salaun hit a crucial three-pointer with just 45 seconds left, giving his team a one-point lead and reaching a career-high of 17 points. The crowd went wild as he celebrated passionately. However, Herro responded with his own three-pointer, then stole the ball from Brandon Miller, leaving Hornets fans disappointed.
Tyler Herro came up CLUTCH for the Heat in the final minutes ๐ค
Miami gets the W in Charlotte!
— NBA (@NBA)
A Promising Performance:
Even though Charlotte lost and now sits at 6-12, Salaun’s performance was promising for the young rookie. Drafted sixth in June, he scored 17 points and made three steals. With nine minutes left in the game, he helped erase Miami’s 17-point lead by hitting one of his three-pointers. He played alongside other young talents like Moussa Diabate.
Fans believe that these young players are bringing fresh energy to the team.
The Hornets relied heavily on their younger lineup during the fourth quarter. This included LaMelo Ball and Nick Smith Jr., along with Josh Green who is considered “grizzled” at just 24 years old! After losing Grant Williams for the season due to injury, they’re embracing this youth movement wholeheartedly.
Coach’s Praise:
Coach Charles Lee praised Salaunโs enthusiasm after witnessing his energetic celebrations post-game: “Watching him hit a shot and then do his double fist pump while flexing his muscles gives our group life.” His unpredictable style adds excitementโlike when he dared Tristan da Silva by turning away completely!
I'm not exactly sure what Tidjane Salaun was doing here, but it was brilliant.
— Steph Noh (@StephNoh)
Salaun may be unconventionalโeven silly sometimesโbut Wednesday showed potential for him becoming essential to future successful Hornet teams. Though not victorious yet this time around…his winning moment will surely come soon enoughโand it’ll be legendary!
