Ron Holland’s Rookie Season As Pistons’ Potential Two-Way Star

The Detroit Pistons entered the 2024-25 NBA season with a roster full of promiseand plenty of questions.

Cade Cunninghams looming rookie-max extension was a hot topic, while Jaden Ivey and Isaiah Stewart were quietly mentioned in trade rumors.

When the new President of Basketball Operations Trajan Langdon took over, some expected him to hit the reset button.

Instead, Langdon doubled down on the young core, choosing patience and development over a complete overhaul.

Armed with the fifth pick in the 2023 draft, the Pistons had several options.

They could select a top prospect, trade down for future assets, or acquire a veteran to complement their youthful core.

Ultimately, Langdon bet on talent, selecting Ron Holland a G-League Ignite standout widely regarded as the most NBA-ready player in the draft.

The pick drew mixed reactions .

Hollands defensive versatility and slashing ability made him an exciting prospect, but his raw shooting mechanics raised questions.

Some also wondered how his game would fit alongside Ausar Thompson , given their overlapping skill sets.

Despite the ups and downs of his rookie season, Holland has shown flashes of his potential.

His defensive instincts and ability to attack the rim have stood out, but where can he improve? And what should Pistons fans be most excited about? Lets dive in.

Ron Hollands Rookie Season As Pistons Two-Way Potential Star Willingness To Improve One of Hollands biggest weaknesses entering the league was his shooting.

His slashing and transition finishing were already elite.

However, his inconsistent jumper allowed defenders to sag off him.

Holland joined the Pistons at the perfect time with Fred Vinson becoming the teams new shooting coach.

Vinson is known for transforming players like Brandon Ingram and Lonzo Ball into reliable shooters.

Turning a weakness into a strength takes time, but Holland has shown gradual improvement.

Hes averaging 2.1 three-point attempts per game, hitting 25% from deep.

Early in the season, his struggles were evident.

He shot 11% from three in October and 16% in November.

His true shooting percentage was just 46% during that span.

December provided hope, as he shot 42% from three on 2.8 attempts per game.

His effective field goal percentage jumped to 66% that month.

Holland is becoming more comfortable in catch-and-shoot situations.

His January three-point percentage dipped to 32%, but his shot selection improved.

Hes taking fewer contested jumpers and more open shots within the offense.

With Vinsons guidance and Hollands work ethic, his shooting could reach league-average levels.

That would make him a more complete offensive player.

Holland Embodies Pistons Defensive Identity Holland earns his minutes on the court because of his relentless defensive energy and willingness to take on tough assignments.

He never backs down from matching up with some of the leagues top perimeter players, bringing a physical, aggressive style that defines his game.

While this approach has its pros and cons, its clear that Hollands defense is a work in progress with flashes of elite potential.

Statistically, his aggressiveness sometimes leads to foul trouble.

Holland ranks 20th in the NBA in personal fouls per 36 minutes (4.2) and 19th in personal fouls per 100 possessions (5.6), limiting his availability in key moments.

However, his activity on the defensive end cant be overlookedhes recorded 20 games with at least two steals and has tallied three or more steals in three different games.

His steal percentage of 2.6% ranks among the top 15 for rookies, highlighting his ability to disrupt passing lanes and create transition opportunities.

Hollands versatility is another strength.

Hes capable of defending multiple positions, from quick guards to bigger wings, holding opponents to 43% shooting when hes the primary defender.

As he learns to channel his aggression more effectively and reduce unnecessary fouls, he has the potential to become a top-tier defender in the league.

The Last Word Ron Hollands rookie season has been a rollercoaster filled with learning experiences, flashes of brilliance, and signs of steady growth.

While his shooting remains a work in progress, his noticeable improvementsespecially under the guidance of shooting coach Fred Vinsonshould give Pistons fans reason for optimism.

Defensively, his intensity and versatility have already made him a valuable piece of the rotation, even as he works to balance his aggression and avoid foul trouble.

Hollands willingness to improve and his competitive edge suggest that his ceiling is far from reached.

If he continues to refine his jumper and sharpen his defensive instincts, the Pistons could have yet another cornerstone in their young core.

Patience will be key, but all the tools are there for Holland to evolve into a game-changing two-way player.

This article first appeared on Last Word On Sports and was syndicated with permission..

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