Imagine a young player transforming before your eyes, evolving from a promising rookie into a potential cornerstone of a team’s future. That’s exactly what’s happening with Ron Holland II, and it’s impossible not to get excited about what’s next. But here’s where it gets controversial: could Holland really be the power forward the Detroit Pistons have been searching for? Let’s dive in.
In a recent preseason game against the Bucks, Holland stepped into the starting lineup at power forward, filling in for the absent Tobias Harris. What followed was a performance that hinted at his growing versatility and potential long-term role. On both ends of the court, Holland looked like he belonged—a far cry from the player who, just last season, showed flashes of brilliance but struggled with consistency.
Holland’s rookie year was a rollercoaster. Offensively, he thrived as a slasher, attacking the rim with relentless energy. However, his lack of an outside shot limited his effectiveness as a modern power forward. Defensively, his size and strength were concerns, often leaving him at a disadvantage against bulkier opponents. And this is the part most people miss: while his offensive growth has been impressive, it’s his defensive transformation that could be a game-changer.
This season, Holland appears to have taken a massive leap. His shooting has improved dramatically, as evidenced by his confident 3-point attempt—and make—off a pick-and-pop with Cade Cunningham. This newfound ability to stretch the floor makes him a far more dynamic threat at the power forward position. But it’s not just his shooting that’s evolved. Holland’s playmaking skills have also taken a step forward, as seen in a play where he expertly ran a pick-and-roll before dishing to a teammate in the corner for an open three. This versatility allows head coach JB Bickerstaff to experiment with Holland in multiple roles, adding a layer of unpredictability to the Pistons’ offense.
Defensively, Holland’s progress is even more striking. Matched up against veteran scorer Bobby Portis, he held his ground in the post, disrupting Portis’s go-to moves. What’s truly impressive is that Holland outperformed fellow sophomore Bobi Klintman, who boasts a significant size advantage. Holland’s offseason focus on adding strength and maintaining his quickness has paid dividends, giving him the edge in defensive matchups.
Looking ahead, the pairing of Holland and Ausar Thompson could form a defensive powerhouse. Their athleticism and energy would create chaos for opponents, but there’s a catch: Thompson’s 6-foot-6 frame may not be enough to guard the league’s bigger power forwards. Here’s the bold question: Can Holland’s added bulk and defensive prowess make him the missing piece in the Pistons’ frontcourt puzzle? If so, it would address one of the team’s most pressing needs—depth at power forward. With only Tobias Harris as a proven option, Holland’s emergence as a reliable backup could provide much-needed relief and set the stage for a future starting lineup.
So, what do you think? Is Ron Holland the power forward of the future, or is it too early to crown him? Let’s hear your thoughts in the comments—this is one debate that’s just getting started.
