Charlotte Hornets’ Young Core: Emerging Stars Beyond the Spotlight

The Charlotte Hornets are beginning to reveal a deeper layer of talent within their young roster, showcasing promising players that often go unnoticed. While names like Kon Knueppel, LaMelo Ball, and Brandon Miller dominate the headlines, two players—Tidjane Salaun and Liam McNeeley—are making significant strides in their development.

As the team navigates the current season, Salaun and McNeeley, both 20 years old, have shown impressive potential. Salaun, in particular, stands out with an exceptional net rating that places him at the top of the Hornets’ roster. It’s an impressive feat, especially considering he ranks above more established players like Ball and Miller in this critical metric.

In recent games, Salaun has demonstrated consistent performance. In a matchup against the Atlanta Hawks, he contributed ten points and four rebounds in just 16 minutes. His performance was overshadowed by the higher-scoring trio of Ball, Miller, and Knueppel, yet his efficiency is evident. With an offensive rating of 121.0, he is producing numbers comparable to star players like Luka Doncic and Karl-Anthony Towns. On the defensive end, his rating of 107.3 places him ahead of notable defenders such as Draymond Green and Rudy Gobert, showcasing his all-around ability.

McNeeley, currently developing in the G League, has also begun to find his footing. Although his minutes have been limited, he has posted encouraging numbers, particularly in defensive efficiency. He ranks just behind Salaun in defensive rating and has the tenth-best offensive rating among his peers. For a player who was initially seen as an afterthought in the 2025 draft, his ascent is noteworthy.

The Hornets possess a mixture of talents who can contribute to a competitive future. Alongside their star players—Ball, Knueppel, and Miller—the roster includes young prospects like Josh Green, Sion James, and Moussa Diabate. The potential addition of Salaun and McNeeley to this group could solidify their standing as a formidable team in the league.

Health remains a crucial factor for the Hornets. As they continue to integrate their young talent, the team’s success will depend on maintaining the availability of key players. Coach Charles Lee recently praised Ball’s resilience, referring to him as a “mighty fighter,” emphasizing the importance of both health and performance as the season progresses.

As the Charlotte Hornets look to the future, the development of Salaun and McNeeley may play a pivotal role in shaping the team’s identity. With a solid core already established, the emergence of these two young players could enhance the Hornets’ competitive edge in the coming years.