2024 NBA Mock Draft 6.0: Spurs attack needs, Hornets make shock selection
By Tyler Watts
13. Sacramento Kings select Tidjane Salaun
Salaun is another talented prospect capable of blossoming into something more in the right setting. His draft range is wide. There is interest in the top ten, but the 6’9 forward could fall out of the lottery if things break wrong on draft night. Salaun could be a steal and has plenty to prove in the NBA.
He averaged 9.7 points, 3.9 rebounds, and 1.0 steal in 23.4 minutes per game for Cholet Basket in France this season. The 18-year-old is years away from his prime, but finding a 6’9 forward that offers ball-handling, versatile defense, and floor spacing will intrigue any team. He must continue improving, but that is Salaun’s upside.
It will take time. Salaun shot 31.6 percent from 3-point range in France this season and just played under 24 minutes per game. Do not be surprised to see him in the G League for parts of his rookie campaign, but the Kings have had success in developing talent.
Sacramento is looking for pieces to fit around De’Aaron Fox and Domantas Sabonis. Keegan Murray has blossomed into a fantastic floor spacer and shot-maker. The teenage prospect could learn from Murray and offer the Kings enough size to compete with some of the bigger teams in the Western Conference. Sacramento could make Salaun a difference-maker.