Photo: Detroit Pistons/X

Ausar Thompson’s promising rookie campaign was cut short due to blood clotting issues, but in his second season, the 2023 lottery pick has emerged as a key defensive presence and a reliable contributor for one of the NBA’s most surprising teams.

Thompson has embraced the role of a defensive stopper, utilizing his physicality to disrupt opponents. Speaking with Grant Afseth of RG.org, the Detroit Pistons wing emphasized how physical play is central to his defensive mindset.

“I think being physical off-ball,” Thompson explained. “When they pass the ball – if they cut, hit ’em a little bit because then it’s gonna slow down the cut. They might try and talk to you. So yeah, just be physical with them, not let them be comfortable and slow ‘em down.”

Thompson has played 2 seasons for the Pistons. He has averaged 9.3 points, 5.7 rebounds and 2.0 assists in 116 regular-season games.

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