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Pistons: Holland Shines With Cunningham, New Skills
It's that time of year again – the preseason, where we get to see glimpses of what might be and start to feel that familiar buzz of anticipation for the upcoming season. For the Detroit Pistons, and fans like us who follow them closely, these games offer a window into potential growth and evolving team dynamics. Recently, Ron Holland II has been turning heads, and it's easy to see why. As reported by Minute Media, in a preseason game against the Bucks, Holland took on the power forward role with a notable comfort level, even sinking a three-pointer off a pick-and-pop play that involved none other than Cade Cunningham. This is more than just a lucky shot; it signals a real development in Holland's game.
Last season, Holland showed promise as a slasher, but his outside shooting was a question mark, and his ability to defend bigger forwards was still developing. Now, however, we're seeing a more well-rounded player. That improved shooting, particularly from deep, is a game-changer, making him a more versatile threat on the offensive end. Beyond the shooting, his increased ball-handling and playmaking are opening up new possibilities for how he can be used, adding a welcome layer of strategic depth for coach JB Bickerstaff.
What's particularly exciting, though, is Holland's improved defensive strength. Facing off against seasoned players like Bobby Portis, Holland held his own, showing he has the physical presence to battle down low. This added bulk and quickness, as noted, give him an edge that his physical size alone might not suggest. The prospect of Holland and Ausar Thompson forming a defensive duo is tantalizing, and Holland’s growth in guarding power forwards could be crucial for filling a gap in the Pistons’ depth chart. It’s refreshing to see players like Holland actively working on their weaknesses, especially when it directly impacts the team's potential success and future lineup. With Cade Cunningham also expected back in action soon, these developing pieces are starting to form a picture of what could be a very interesting season for the Pistons.
Are these preseason performances simply flashes in the pan, or are we witnessing the genuine emergence of key players who will shape the Pistons' future?
Last season, Holland showed promise as a slasher, but his outside shooting was a question mark, and his ability to defend bigger forwards was still developing. Now, however, we're seeing a more well-rounded player. That improved shooting, particularly from deep, is a game-changer, making him a more versatile threat on the offensive end. Beyond the shooting, his increased ball-handling and playmaking are opening up new possibilities for how he can be used, adding a welcome layer of strategic depth for coach JB Bickerstaff.
What's particularly exciting, though, is Holland's improved defensive strength. Facing off against seasoned players like Bobby Portis, Holland held his own, showing he has the physical presence to battle down low. This added bulk and quickness, as noted, give him an edge that his physical size alone might not suggest. The prospect of Holland and Ausar Thompson forming a defensive duo is tantalizing, and Holland’s growth in guarding power forwards could be crucial for filling a gap in the Pistons’ depth chart. It’s refreshing to see players like Holland actively working on their weaknesses, especially when it directly impacts the team's potential success and future lineup. With Cade Cunningham also expected back in action soon, these developing pieces are starting to form a picture of what could be a very interesting season for the Pistons.
Are these preseason performances simply flashes in the pan, or are we witnessing the genuine emergence of key players who will shape the Pistons' future?
