Ausar

Thompson

The Detroit Pistons will get another addition to their youthful squad, with Ausar Thompson taking a major step toward playing. After he dealt with a blood clot issue since March, he’s been cleared to play by the NBA’s fitness-to-play panel. Thompson had the seal of approval to start ramping up his condition in preparation for his season debut, according to ESPN’s Shams Charania.

Unfortunately, Thompson isn’t the only player who dealt with a blood clot issue. Los Angeles Lakers center Christian Koloko dealt with a blood clot that nearly cost him his career. Fast forward to the 2024 season, and he’s played two games with the Lakers this season. Luckily for Thompson, once he’s cleared to play, he’ll have a more expanded role.

In his rookie season, Thompson showed flashes in the pan. He averaged 8.8 points, 6.4 rebounds, and 1.9 assists per game. Previous Pistons head coach Monty Williams used him in a variety of ways. He played either as a ball-handler, screen setter, or physical presence inside. While the 6’7, 215-pound forward didn’t seem like a big body, he was.

With only playing 25.1 minutes, he gobbled nearly seven rebounds a game. For a rookie and for playing just a little over half of the game, the numbers are impressive.