This encapsulation, The NBA Twin You’ve Forgotten About: Ausar Thompson, is pulled with permission from this video by Nik Land.
Ausar Thompson: Overcoming Health Challenges
Detroit Pistons’ Ausar Thompson is back in action, marking his sixth game of the season after overcoming a significant health challenge. Thompson’s return after dealing with blood clots — a condition serious enough to derail careers, like that of Chris Bosh—is a testament to his determination and resilience. This return not only embodies his personal tenacity but also serves as a beacon of hope for young athletes navigating health issues in their careers.
Defensive Masterclass Against the Miami Heat
Thompson’s performance against the Miami Heat showcased why he remains one of the league’s most versatile defenders. In this game, he matched up against Tyler Herro, reflecting his defensive prowess and adaptability. Last season, Thompson ranked in the 96th percentile for matchup difficulty and was equally adept at handling perimeter isolation defense. His ability to guard primary ball handlers—ranking him in the 93rd percentile—was on full display.
The Pistons’ game plan allowed Thompson to utilize his freakish athleticism. A standout moment was his disruption of a lob play against Herro, demonstrating his speed and hustle. Furthermore, his interception rate remains impressive, with his ability to recover and force turnovers coming to the fore.
Offensive Game: Improvements and Potential
On the offensive end, Thompson has been honing his craft, particularly his jump shot mechanics. Unlike his rookie year, his shot appears smoother and more consistent, thanks to countless hours of practice. While Nik Land points out that Thompson still needs to improve his finishing—especially after coast-to-coast plays—the progress in his shot-making abilities is noteworthy.
A memorable play from Thompson was a missed dunk that still spoke volumes about his raw athleticism. Despite not converting, his attempt was a perfect encapsulation of the energy and excitement he brings to the Pistons. Additionally, Thompson’s ability to push the ball in transition and his prowess as a defensive rebounder (averaging 4.5 defensive rebounds last season) make him an invaluable asset to the team.
Athleticism and Game Intelligence
Thompson’s athletic abilities extend beyond vertical leaping; his agility and quickness allow him to excel in various roles. Whether he’s intercepting passes or making timely cuts, his on-court intelligence enhances his overall impact. This season, even without being a prolific shooter, Thompson remains one of the most athletic players in the NBA.
His potential as a playmaker is also significant. When Cade Cunningham is not on the court, Thompson shares ball-handling responsibilities and demonstrates his ability to generate potential assists, as highlighted by his ranking in the 98th percentile for potential assists per 100 passes last season.
Taking Advantage of Defensive Matchups
Teams often place their weaker defenders on Thompson due to his shooting limitations. However, leveraging his athletic superiority, Thompson consistently capitalizes on these matchups. His ability to drive, cut, and overpower less athletic defenders becomes an invaluable tool for the Pistons.
Despite these matchups, Thompson’s true prowess shines in his defensive efforts. Continuously guarding Herro against strong screening attempts from Bam Adebayo, Thompson’s resolve led to multiple pivotal turnovers, showcasing his relentless hustle and commitment to the team.
Conclusion
Ausar Thompson is far from forgotten. His triumphant return and standout performances highlight his resilience, athletic ability, and enthusiasm for the game. This twin brother may be overlooked sometimes, but his contributions to the Pistons are invaluable. As fans, the expectation is not perfection but passion, and Thompson exhibits it in spades every time he steps onto the court. The Pistons can look forward to a thrilling season with Thompson’s energy and heart leading the charge.
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