San Antonio Spurs consider French forward Tidjane Salaun 8th overall in 2024 NBA Draft

The San Antonio Spurs, who hold two top-10 picks in the 2024 NBA Draft, are linked to unheralded prospect Tidjane Salaun at No. 8. Salaun, a French striker, has shown potential with Cholet Basket and shares links with Spurs cornerstone Victor Wembanyama. His stats per 36 minutes highlight his scoring and dynamism, making him an intriguing candidate for the Spurs’ rebuilding efforts.

In numbers

• Salaun averages 15.0 points, 6.1 rebounds and 1.7 steals per 36 minutes.
• In 2023-24, the Spurs ranked 28th in 3-point percentage (.347) with an average of 36.4 attempts per game.

Yes, but

Salaun’s shooting percentages this season, 40.5 percent from the field and 32.0 percent from three-point range, raise concerns given the Spurs’ struggles with efficiency from beyond the arc.

State of play

• Wembanyama’s support for Salaun could influence Spurs’ proposed move.
• San Antonio could also consider trading away picks to move up in the draft or acquire a star player like Darius Garland.

And after

The Spurs must decide whether to invest in Salaun’s potential or seek immediate impact via trades or other draft picks. Wembanyama’s contribution could be crucial in determining Salaun’s future with the team.

Conclusion

Salaun’s potential and support from Wembanyama make him a strong candidate for San Antonio’s 8th pick, but his shooting inefficiencies mean the Spurs will have to weigh their options carefully.