The Detroit Pistons are going to be looking to compete in the Eastern Conference next season with a roster that, for the most part, looks like the one they rolled out last year. They didn’t make many additional moves in terms of offensive creators next to Cade Cunningham. But they still have elite defenders. And Ausar Thompson is one of the best defensive weapons in the NBA.
Having Thompson on their side is an inherent advantage for the Pistons. On any given night, the Pistons are likely to have the best defender on the court. A guy who can lock up the best player on the other team at a moment’s notice. Detroit may rarely have an advantage on offense, but the Thompson advantage? That’s clear.
Despite Detroit’s clear offensive weak points, they still have some of the best defensive players in the league, and Thompson is the best among them.
Ausar Thompson gives Pistons advantage every night
Offense matters a lot in the NBA. Having a guy who can create for himself and others is essential. Without it, teams aren’t able to compete at the highest level deep into the playoffs.
Cunningham is that guy for the Pistons. Isaiah Joe could be a guy like that for the Pistons. Then they have players like Daniss Jenkins, Duncan Robinson, and rookie Ebuka Okorie who can give them some offense.
But it feels like defensive specialists are underrated at times. Sometimes, it’s just as important to have a guy who can stop those types of players. Who can stop the Jayson Tatums, LeBron James, and Kawhi Leonards of the world.
That’s what Thompson can be for the Pistons next year. It’s what he was for them last year, too. It gives the Pistons a clear advantage over any opponent they play, especially those who don’t have a go-to stopper like Thompson.
Detroit may not have added a secondary offensive creator next to Cunningham this summer, but they have the same version of that on the defensive side of the ball.
Thompson’s defense is one of the Pistons’ best weapons. One of their most defining advantages on any given night. They can stick him on whoever they want, and that person is going to struggle.
That’s what he does. And despite the Pistons’ lack of big-time moves this summer, it’s part of why they will be able to stay toward the top of the East.
Just because Thompson isn’t an amazing offensive player doesn’t mean he can’t be a game-changer. He is one.
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