Summer League is in full swing, and the Detroit Pistons are in the thick of it. With a record of 2-1, the young players for the Pistons are making a name for themselves, potentially securing opportunities elsewhere. Two standout 2024 NBA draft picks, Ron Holland and Bobi Klintman, rejuvenate the team’s future.
Despite initial perceptions of being drafted too high, Holland and Klintman have shown promise. Holland, the 5th overall pick, was seen by many experts as someone who could have been selected later in the draft. Klintman was selected 37th overall after the Pistons traded up 16 slots to get him. He was a former 4-star recruit who chose to play overseas in Australia. How have these two players fared so far? What strengths and weaknesses have emerged in their games? Let’s delve into their performances.
Top Takeaways From 2024 Pistons Draft Class in Summer League
Pistons Summer League: Ron Holland, Highlights and Hurdles
The Pistons’ fan base is eager to see their young players excel in the summer league, and among them, Ron Holland faces the most intense pressure. In his two games, Holland averages 16.0 points, 8.0 rebounds, 2.5 assists, 1.0 steals, and 1.0 blocks per game, shooting 34% from the field, 16% from three, and 58% from the free-throw line.
However, Holland has demonstrated his ability to find ways to score. In Tuesday’s game against the Chicago Bulls, Holland shot 7/20 from the field. His scoring included four baskets from transition, one from a well-timed cut to the basket, and one from three-point range, showcasing his potential to be a three-level scorer. His physicality indicates he’s not afraid of contact, which is a positive sign.
For Holland believers, improvement in ball handling and free-throw consistency is crucial. Defenders often anticipate his drives, leading to turnovers or lost handles. His free-throw shooting at 58% is problematic for a player whose style relies on attacking the basket. In the game against the Bulls, he shot 2-6 from the foul line. Although the sample size is small, improving his free-throw percentage is vital for his development.
Pistons Summer League: Bobi Klintman, Shooter and Distributor
When the Pistons traded up for Klintman, there were questions about the rotation of wings. With Ausar Thompson, Simone Fontecchio, and Holland, Klintman’s drafting was puzzling. However, his performance in Vegas has been impressive, revealing new aspects of his game. In three games, Klintman averages 12.0 points, 8.7 rebounds, and 3.7 assists on 46% from the field, 43% from three, and 50% from the free-throw line. Klintman is showing potential to make the opening night roster.
Known for his shooting, Klintman’s progress as a playmaker is noteworthy. His 3.7 assists per game ranks third on the team and could be higher if teammates converted more of his setups. Despite his playmaking, areas for improvement justified his drop to the second round.
Klintman averages 2.0 turnovers per game, tying him for the third-worst on the team. Additionally, he doesn’t put enough pressure on the defense, averaging less than one free throw per game. While these are minor criticisms, Klintman has proven to be a steal in the draft. Maintaining his confidence will be vital to staying in the mix as competition intensifies in pre-season and the regular season.
The Last Word
The Detroit Pistons’ Summer League performance has been a showcase of emerging talent and potential. Ron Holland and Bobi Klintman, initially viewed with skepticism due to their draft positions, have proven valuable assets with impressive performances. Despite some areas needing improvement, Holland’s ability to score at all levels and his tenacity on the court indicate a bright future. Klintman, with his shooting prowess and unexpected playmaking skills, has demonstrated he can be a versatile contributor to the team.
Both players have shown they can rise to the occasion as the Summer League progresses, silencing doubts and making strong cases for their roles on the main roster. The Pistons’ investment in these young talents is beginning to pay off, and their development promises to bring renewed energy and success to the team. Holland and Klintman could be essential to the Pistons’ quest for a competitive and dynamic team next season. The future looks bright in Detroit, and fans have every reason to be optimistic about what lies ahead.
