The Detroit Pistons are gearing up for the postseason, and if Wednesday night's game is any indication, Ausar Thompson is ready to play a pivotal role. While Cade Cunningham and Jalen Duren grabbed headlines in the Pistons' 124-116 victory over the Oklahoma City Thunder, Thompson quietly delivered a standout two-way performance that could be the blueprint for success.
After a tough outing against the Spurs, Thompson bounced back with authority, logging 28 minutes of dynamic play. He was a defensive menace, disrupting Thunder possessions, and then transitioning smoothly into a playmaker on offense. Thompson's stat line-11 points, seven assists, four rebounds, three steals, and two blocks-tells the story of a player who was everywhere on the court.
Pistons head coach J.B. Bickerstaff praised Thompson's impact, emphasizing his importance to the team's success.
"Tonight is who he’s always been," Bickerstaff said. "We aren’t in this position without Ausar playing the way he has all season.
He’s a huge part of what we do."
Thompson's court vision and speed were on full display as he functioned as a secondary playmaker, complementing Cunningham’s 13 assists. His ability to read the game and make timely decisions was crucial, especially considering he's only hit the seven-assist mark a few times this season.
Thompson's shot selection was another highlight. With smart backdoor cuts and positioning, he found himself in prime spots for easy finishes or quick passes. He also mixed in some mid-range jumpers, showcasing his versatility and confidence on the offensive end.
As the Pistons look ahead to the playoffs, Thompson's role as a secondary playmaker becomes even more critical. His performance against the Thunder demonstrated his potential to step up when needed, providing the team with an additional layer of flexibility and creativity on the floor.
Next up, the Pistons will face the Cleveland Cavaliers in a Central Division showdown on Friday, Feb. 27 at 7 pm. With Thompson hitting his stride, Detroit fans have plenty to be excited about.