The 2023 Draft class is off to a strong start so far this season with Victor Wembanyama living up to the hype so far with last year's #2 overall pick in Chet Holmgren looking like a rookie of the year candidate as well. However, there is one rookie who I feel is not getting nearly enough attention for the way he has been able to fill a stat sheet and be impactful on both sides of the court. #5 overall pick, Ausar Thompson at 6'6" plays like a big man in a guards body with the way he has been able to be a defensive anchor at times for the Pistons. In his first career game, though he did not have much of offensive impact he did have 5 blocks in the game which is a testament to his effort on defense.
Ausar's versatility and impact is best shown in the way he is able to fill up stat sheet. He is currently the fifth leading rookie in scoring, leading rookie in rebounds, fourth in assists, third in blocks, and second in steals. His ability to be a hard nosed presence defensively along with his elite athleticism will be a major asset for the Pistons for years to come.
Like most rookies he still has a lot of room for improvement as he is still raw offensively. He also will need to improve his outside shooting as he shoots just 15% from three point range though he only attempts about 2.4 threes per game on average. Fortunately, he will be able to grow into his role as a potential star for the Pistons over time since he does not have the pressure to be a #1 option with their third year guard in Cade Cunningham looking like a legit All-Star caliber player so far this season. Still, the Pistons appear to have found a gem in Ausar who has the skillset and elite athletic ability to be a really good two way player for years to come.
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