Ron Holland - 6’8 SF, G-League Ignite
2023-2024 G-League Ignite stat line - 20.6 PPG, 3.0 APG, 6.6 RPG, 2.5 SPG, 24% 3pt FG
Predicted Rookie stat line - 6.2 PPG, 2.1 APG, 5.9 RPG, 1.3 SPG, 27% 3pt FG
Ron Holland was somewhat of a surprise for Detroit to take fifth overall. His defense, speed, and ability to draw contact are all elite, but he has similar shortcomings as last year’s rookie, Ausar Thompson.
Both players’ outside shooting is essentially non-existent. Holland shot just 24 percent from deep last season, but, to be fair, he differs from Ausar in his shooting form, and shooting confidence. With the Ignite, Holland attempted almost four three-pointers per game, most of which came off looking good, but just didn't go in over the course of a tiny sample size. Given some more attempts and time with shooting guru Fred Vinson, that number should go up.
What’s also different for Ron from Ausar’s rookie season is the roster. Ausar was expected to start a number of games, and would have even more if Monty Williams wasn’t trying to get fired (just joking). Detroit now has a roster that can afford to run Holland off the bench, likely giving fewer minutes, but easier competition against second units. His numbers will dip fairly drastically due to his limited minutes, but this will help his development in the long run.
Similar to last year with Ausar Thompson, I think Ron Holland will show tons of potential throughout his rookie year, and electrify the crowd at times. His stat sheet, however, will leave some to be desired.