Ron Holland shows off outside shot as Detroit Pistons blow out Knicks in Summer League
The 20-year-old forward finished with 28 points (8-for-12 overall, 4-for-5 from 3), 11 rebounds, three steals and a block to lead the Pistons to a 104-86 victory over the New York Knicks at Cox Pavilion.
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Two-way point guard Daniss Jenkins added 18 points and two-way center Tolu Smith added 16 points and 11 rebounds. 2024 second-round pick Bobi Klintman (10 points, eight rebounds, five assists and two steals) and 2025 second-rounder Chaz Lanier (10 points, four assists) also scored in double figures.
The Pistons next play in Summer League on Sunday, July 13, against the Houston Rockets at 4 p.m. (ESPN2, FanDuel Sports Network Detroit Extra).
Ron Holland II of the Detroit Pistons poses for a portrait during the 2024 NBA Rookie Photo Shoot at UNLV in Las Vegas on Wednesday, July 17, 2024.
RON UNSTOPPABLE: Holland has 'relentless' offseason for Detroit Pistons: 'I left a lot on the table'
Ron Holland showcases improved outside jumper
Holland might officially be too good for summer league. The second-year wing, just as he was in his rookie season, was relentless. He had two steals in the opening minutes, with the second leading to a fastbreak layup. His passing was active – he made a point early to locate Smith for interior passes.
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But Holland truly took over in the third quarter, scoring 18 points within the period while knocking down all three of his 3-point attempts. The second was a step-back 3 from the corner, and the last was a deep attempt a second before the quarter expired. After checking in midway through the final period, he added another 3-pointer with four minutes left.
Outside shooting has been an emphasis for him this summer after he knocked down just 23.8% of his 3s as a rookie. He airballed his lone attempt in the first half, but all his second-half attempts looked fluid and comfortable. Additionally, Holland also generated pressure at the rim and knocked down eight of 13 free throw attempts.
Klintman's passing still looks good
On back-to-back possessions, Klintman showcased the passing that made him one of the team's most intriguing prospects in Las Vegas a year ago. A touch pass to former Duke wing Trevor Keels generated a wide-open 3-pointer, and he connected with Keels the following possession on a cutting layup. His five assists led the Pistons.
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Klintman also showcased his defensive instincts by coming up with a pair of steals in the first half. Both led to points — a fastbreak dunk, followed by a pair of free throws. The 6-foot-10 forward could have an opportunity this season with the team lacking depth at the four.
Jenkins asserts himself as a scorer
After establishing himself as one of the Motor City Cruise's top players last season, Jenkins was on a mission in Las Vegas. He got the Pistons on the board with a 3-pointer and hit several tough baskets over the course of the game, including a floater after regaining his balance.
Jenkins only shot 33.5% from 3 last season but knocked down three of his five attempts against the Knicks. He led the Pistons in scoring at halftime with 13 points, before Holland erupted in the third.
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This article originally appeared on Detroit Free Press: Detroit Pistons stomp New York Knicks in Summer League opener, 104-86
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