Ausar Thompson finally made his debut against the Toronto Raptors in a game that the Pistons were able to pull out a win in the final seconds. Ausar debuted coming off the bench and was met to a large ovation from Pistons crowd that was seeking a pick-me-up after the Pistons allowed the Raptors to get back in the game.

Thompson would slowly work his way into action, after a few possessions, Ausar began to find a rhythm and get into the flow of the game. Although the statistics don’t tell the full story, especially in the first half, the eye test shows his presence is certainly something that the Pistons were lacking the first 18 games of the year.

Thompson’s athleticism was put on display as he applied defensive pressure onto Toronto’s star player Scotty Barnes. In addition, Ausar would assume the role as primary ball handler as well. Per Piston’s Coach JB Bickerstarff, “I thought he was really good at pushing the ball. He made some great plays to his teammates…He was really good overall. The more comfortable he gets, the better he’s going to be.” Although, he didn’t shoot well from the floor, he did hit a three from the corner in the second half. Down the stretch he also had a big layup in transition, which at the time would give the Pistons the lead with 2 minutes remaining in the game, later resulting in a victory for the team.

There were obviously some misses but I really liked how comfortable and free Ausar Thompson looked out there tonight pic.twitter.com/IP1HlpQSCG

— ℚ (@qshironalberti3) November 26, 2024

Ausar would finish the game with 5 points, 3 rebounds, and 4 assist on only 16 minutes of action. The Pistons knew that Thompson would be able to bring defensive intensity, rebounding, and athleticism but, it appears that he may have more to offer after we take a closer look at his debut performance. Thompson has looked very comfortable with the ball in his hands. His handle looked much more fluid, and his playmaking, seemed effortless at times in the transition as well as in the half court. His jump-shot form also appeared improved, which may be attributed to his work with Piston’s coach Fred Vinson. Ausar has worked with the shooting coach Vinson while rehabilitating, and awaiting to be cleared for full contact. The Pistons will only be get more deep as a unit, when Cade Cunningham who is nursing a back injury returns to the court soon.