3 Detroit Pistons that could shock the world next season
3 Detroit Pistons that could shock the world next season
Ausar Thompson
It was somewhat surprising when the Detroit Pistons drafted Ausar Thompson with the 5th pick, as there had been a lot of other names mentioned as possibilities leading up to the 2023 NBA Draft.
Detroit is a team that has long had a void where a small forward should be and struggled mightily to defend the position last season with Saddiq Bey and Bojan Bogdanovic.
Most of the draft profiles of Thompson talked about his athleticism and defense, how he couldn’t shoot and how his brother Amen was going to be the better playmaker. After seeing some glimpses of Ausar in Summer League, I am not so sure.
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Thompson is far more than just a great athlete, as he has great court awareness, vision, is a better playmaker than he’s been given credit for and is an excellent rebounder who can grab a board and go with it.
Thompson also showed an improving 3-point shot in his final days in Overtime Elite, and I think he’ll surprise some people by hitting a decent percentage next season. I also think he’ll be starting before the season is out and will help the Pistons improve to a top-15 defense while finishing in the top-3 for Rookie of the Year.
Thompson wants to be the best player from his draft class and his is going to shock some people when he shows he’s far more than just a defender.
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