3 X-factors that could make the Pistons better than expected

X-Factor #3: Ausar Thompson 

We talk endlessly about Cade Cunningham and his importance to the Detroit Pistons, but to me, Thompson is equally as important. 

This year’s playoffs were partially defined by athletic wings on defense, guys like Jaden McDaniels, Jaylen Brown, Derrick White etc... 

Thompson is already an agent of chaos on defense, the boards and in transition, but if he can start to score more efficiently, he could end up being the Pistons’ best player. 

Thompson is the type of player who can impact the game in myriad ways, but if he makes a leap offensively, even when it comes to scoring around the rim, he’s going to be the foundational player along with Cunningham. And if he gets his long-range shooting up to even league average, he's going to be an All-Star soon.

It’s a shame his rookie season was cut short, as Thompson was coming on late, scoring in double digits in 10 of his final 14 games before having to leave early with blood clots. 

A big year-two leap from Thompson, and the Pistons could surprise some people next season.