The 2023-24 NBA season spelled disaster for the Detroit Pistons, marking a period of grim franchise history characterized by the lowest number of wins in a single campaign and a staggering 28-game losing streak, setting a new record.
Despite the lack of positives to glean from the season, rookie Ausar Thompson stood out as a notable exception. Thompson swiftly asserted himself as the team’s premier perimeter defender, regularly tasked with guarding the opposing team’s top scorer.
Armed with a combination of size, length, and athleticism, Thompson entered the NBA equipped to excel as a versatile defender. Despite facing the typical challenges of a rookie, he capitalized on his skill set, achieving success despite the usual growing pains.
Regrettably for Thompson and the Pistons, his season came to an abrupt end due to a troubling health concern, initially shrouded in ambiguity by the team. However, in March, it was confirmed that Thompson was grappling with a blood clot, sidelining him for the final 19 games of the season.
Earlier this week, during a media appearance, Thompson addressed his health issue, acknowledging that he hadn’t been feeling like himself, which raised concerns. “They haven’t provided any details on how it will affect me in the future,” Thompson revealed. “Right now, I’m just concentrating on the present. My priority is to rejoin my teammates as soon as possible.”
Ausar on what he felt leading up the blood clot diagnosis: "I wasn't feeling like myself. Thank god the doctor got to it and now I'm a mental journey and physical journey to get back."
— James L. Edwards III (@JLEdwardsIII) April 15, 2024
Blood clots are a serious matter, and catching it relatively early was fortunate. While it marked an unfortunate conclusion to Thompson’s rookie season, prioritizing his long-term health was paramount in a challenging year.
Already demonstrating his defensive prowess, Thompson was questioned about areas for improvement heading into his second year. He expressed a focus on enhancing his offensive skills, particularly his shooting. “I was satisfied with my ability to drive, pass, finish at the rim, and defend,” Thompson shared.
In his rookie campaign, Thompson averaged 8.8 points and 6.4 rebounds per game. Elevating his shooting percentages could significantly enhance his impact on the Pistons and elevate the team’s potential.
Thompson’s struggle to make an impact from beyond the paint as a rookie made the team easier to defend. He aims to improve upon his 18.6 percent from 3-point range and 59.7 percent from the free-throw line, as opponents often disregarded him outside of the paint.
