With the 5th pick in the 2024 NBA draft, the Detroit Pistons selected Ron Holland from the G-League Ignite. Pistons’ General Manager Trajan Langdon kept the pick and chose the 18-year-old, signaling a commitment to building a young, dynamic core. On the surface, Holland will give the Pistons an energetic high-riser who is an aggressive scorer and defender. He won’t boost the Pistons’ shooting, with only 24% from three and 28% from mid-range. The urgency and importance of this aspect for the team’s success cannot be overstated. How does Holland project with this Pistons team, particularly given their need for improved shooting and floor spacing? Let’s find out.
The Detroit Pistons Select G-League Ignite Star with The 5th Pick
Ron Holland’s Strengths For The Pistons
Offensive Aggression
Look out when Ron Holland grabs a defensive rebound, or a fast break is about to happen! Holland’s speed without the ball is impressive, but it’s even more remarkable when he has it. His long strides and footwork in the open floor allow him to burst around the paint with a nose for the rim and vertical explosion that makes him a highlight waiting to happen in Detroit.
Holland’s potential as a versatile and dangerous offensive threat is a crucial asset for the Pistons. His ability to create scoring opportunities in transition and set plays will be a valuable asset for the team.
Defensive Potential
At 6’8” and 206 pounds, Holland’s size translates well to the defensive end. He has the foot speed and versatility to effectively defend big guards, wings, and some small-ball 4s. While he doesn’t give his all on every possession and sometimes takes plays off, when fully engaged, Holland’s high motor skills allow him to make impactful plays that contribute to winning for the Pistons, exciting the audience about his potential impact on the team’s performance.
His size, speed, and versatility mean he can switch across multiple positions, providing the Pistons with defensive flexibility. With the right coaching and development, Holland’s defensive presence could become a cornerstone of the team’s strategy, reassuring the audience about the team’s defensive capabilities.
Ron Holland’s Weaknesses With The Pistons
Shooting
As mentioned, Holland isn’t the greatest shooter right now. He shot 24% from three and 28% from mid-range, highlighting a significant improvement. His 72% free-throw percentage is solid, but ideally, it should be higher, especially considering his aggressive style of play that will likely draw many fouls.
However, hiring Fred Vinson as a shooting coach brings optimism for Holland’s development. Vinson is renowned for improving players’ shooting mechanics and efficiency. With Vinson’s guidance, Holland is expected to make significant strides in perimeter shooting, potentially transforming his offensive game and making him a more well-rounded player for the Pistons.
Intangibles
Holland was a bit turnover-prone with the G-League Ignite, which is a concern. This was expected as a high-usage player in the G-League, but his role in the NBA will be different, potentially reducing the pressure on him to handle the ball as much. Nevertheless, improving his ball-handling and decision-making will be crucial for his transition to the NBA.
Another area for improvement is his creativity when creating his shots. While Holland will score points by running the floor and leveraging his athleticism, he currently needs to break down defenders one-on-one consistently. Developing this skill will be essential for him to become a more versatile and reliable offensive threat at the professional level.
Improving shot creation and reducing turnovers is crucial for Holland as he adapts to the NBA’s pace and competition. With the right coaching and development, Holland has the potential to grow into a more well-rounded and effective player.
The Last Word
Ron Holland’s selection as the 5th pick in the 2024 NBA draft by the Detroit Pistons highlights the team’s commitment to building a young, dynamic core. Holland brings an energetic, high-rising presence with aggressive scoring and defensive potential, making him an exciting addition to the roster. His ability to create scoring opportunities in transition and his versatility in defending multiple positions provide the Pistons with valuable assets on both ends of the floor.
With his size, speed, and athleticism, Holland has the raw tools to become a significant contributor to the Pistons’ success. Refining his shooting, decision-making, and shot creation could make Holland a cornerstone player, boosting Detroit’s offense and defense. Development is vital, but Holland’s potential makes him a promising prospect for the Pistons’ future.
