The talk and hypotheticals are officially over. The 2024-25 NBA season is back in full effect. For the Detroit Pistons, the preseason offers the perfect chance for players to adjust to J.B. Bickerstaff’s new system and build chemistry after a rough 68-loss season.
On Sunday night, the Pistons took the floor against the Milwaukee Bucks. With Giannis Antetokounmpo absent from the lineup, the Pistons overcame an 18-point deficit to defeat the Bucks, 120-87. It’s common for teams to show some rust in the preseason, and that was evident early on as the Bucks jumped out to a 20-3 lead, hitting five of their first six three-point attempts. But once the Pistons settled in, they dominated, outscoring Milwaukee 117-67 after falling behind by 18 in a gritty performance.
Though preseason games lack regular season importance, they provide valuable insights into team chemistry, strengths, and areas for improvement. So, what were the key takeaways from Sunday’s game that could guide the Pistons through the season? Let’s dive in.
Key Takeaways from Pistons’ Preseason Win Over Bucks
Pistons’ Preseason Takeaway: Ron Holland’s Defensive Potential
Heading into the season, there were questions surrounding the selection of Ron Holland as the fifth overall pick. With Ausar Thompson drafted just a year prior, many wondered why Trajan Langdon would choose a player with a similar profile. However, with Thompson sidelined due to blood clots that kept him out for the final 19 games last season, Holland seized the opportunity to prove his worth.
In 26 minutes, Holland recorded 10 points, six rebounds, and five assists on 4-10 shooting. While his shot wasn’t falling consistently, his defensive intensity was undeniable. Holland was all over the court, disrupting the opposition and wreaking havoc. Early on, he’s showing that he can be a dynamic defensive force. If Holland maintains this energy, Thompson’s role with the team could face some difficult questions in the future.
Jaden Ivey’s Three-Point Shooting
No player on the Pistons’ roster is under more scrutiny right now than Jaden Ivey. Selected with the fifth overall pick in the 2022 draft, Ivey saw a dip in efficiency last season compared to his rookie year. It’s well known that Ivey seems to perform better without Cade Cunningham, often struggling to find his rhythm when sharing the backcourt. His below-average three-point shooting has also limited Cunningham’s ability to operate freely on the floor. But if Sunday’s performance is any indication, the Pistons’ offense could start to open up.
In just 23 minutes, Ivey posted 22 points on 7-9 shooting, including a perfect 3-3 from beyond the arc. For the first time in a while, Ivey played with the confidence that made him a lottery pick two seasons ago. He was flying up and down the court, showing no hesitation when taking perimeter shots. If you’re a Pistons fan, this is the version of Ivey you want to see consistently.
The Last Word
The Pistons’ performance on Sunday night provided a glimpse into the team’s potential for the upcoming season. With Ron Holland emerging as a defensive standout, Jaden Ivey rediscovering his shooting confidence, and the team showing resilience in overcoming an 18-point deficit, there’s reason for optimism in Detroit. While it’s only the preseason, these individual developments could play a crucial role in shaping the Pistons’ success this year. If they continue to build on these early signs, this young roster could surprise many as the season progresses.
