Ausar Thompson

A five-star recruit during his time at Pine Crest High School, Thompson decided to sign with the Overtime Elite basketball league with his brother, Amen, rather than play collegiately. Thompson's highlight-reel offensive plays get most of the attention, but the wing's defense might be where he makes the biggest impact out of the gate. He's hyper-athletic and versatile, which may allow him to defend all positions but center, especially when the other team runs small. He'll jump in passing lanes and pick pockets to start fast breaks, and he's a great shot-blocker for his size. Offensively, he's best with a head of steam toward the basket, whether that be on or off the ball, due to his poor shooting. When he has the ball in his hands, he's an excellent passer who has demonstrated patience and precision. Thompson has the look of a potential star, though he may need to follow in the steps of other two-way playmaking wings without knockdown-jumpers. Most NBA comparisons come with a caveat -- a more passing-focused Jimmy Butler, a longer Markelle Fultz, a bouncier Shai Gilgeous-Alexander. While Thompson doesn't project to be a primary ballhandler with the Pistons as long as Cade Cunningham is around, his career could begin to trend in that direction. Whether Thompson starts or comes off the bench, he should at least see 25 minutes per game for a Detroit team featuring forwards like Bojan Bogdanovic and Isaiah Livers. In four Summer League appearances, Thompson averaged 13.5 points, 10.0 rebounds, 3.5 assists, 2.3 steals and 1.8 blocks in 29.2 minutes.