Ausar Thompson, Pistons
Getty
Ausar Thompson talks to head coach J.B. Bickerstaff of the Detroit Pistons.
The Detroit Pistons could soon welcome back one of their most dynamic defenders as Ausar Thompson is listed as probable to play Sunday against the Toronto Raptors.
Thompson has missed the last five games after suffering a right ankle sprain early in Detroit’s March 5 matchup against the San Antonio Spurs. The 23-year-old exited that contest just minutes into the first quarter and did not return.
Detroit has taken a cautious approach with Thompson’s recovery as the regular season enters its final stretch, but the latest injury update suggests the versatile forward is nearing a return to game action.
If Thompson is cleared to play, Marcus Sasser is expected to shift back to the second unit after seeing an expanded role during Thompson’s absence.
Pistons Managed Without Thompson
Detroit navigated a mixed stretch without Thompson in the lineup, going 3-2 across the five games he missed.
Despite the short-handed run, the Pistons managed to build some momentum late in the stretch, winning their last three games and maintaining breathing room over the Boston Celtics in the race near the top of the Eastern Conference standings.
Thompson’s potential return comes at an important time as Detroit looks to sustain that momentum heading into the final weeks of the regular season.
Thompson Was Playing His Best Basketball Before Injury
Giannis Antetokounmpo
GettyDetroit Pistons’ Ausar Thompson defends Milwaukee Bucks superstar Giannis Antetokounmpo.
Before the ankle injury, Thompson had been producing arguably the most consistent stretch of his young career.
Across the seven games prior to the injury, he averaged 11.4 points, 5.9 rebounds, 5.0 assists, 2.4 steals and 1.0 blocks in just over 28 minutes per game.
His ability to contribute across multiple categories has made him one of Detroit’s most valuable two-way players.
Thompson’s defensive activity has been especially impactful. Earlier this season, he was named Eastern Conference Defensive Player of the Month for January after repeatedly disrupting opposing offenses with his length and anticipation.
During February, he continued to generate turnovers and fast-break opportunities, averaging more than two steals per game while also contributing blocks from the wing.
Defensive Impact Fuels Awards Conversation
Thompson’s defensive versatility has also placed him in early conversations for All-Defensive Team recognition.
However, the NBA’s awards eligibility rules require players to appear in at least 65 games, with each qualifying game including a minimum of 20 minutes played.
So far this season, Thompson has appeared in 48 games where he logged at least 20 minutes.
That leaves him needing at least 15 additional qualifying games over Detroit’s remaining schedule to remain eligible for postseason awards.
With the Pistons having 16 games left, Thompson’s return Sunday could be crucial to keeping that possibility alive.
Bickerstaff Emphasized Patience With Recovery
Detroit head coach J. B. Bickerstaff previously indicated the team wanted to be cautious with Thompson’s recovery following the ankle injury.
“Ausar Thompson, I think, is going to be a minute,” Bickerstaff said earlier in the week. “Just from where the ankle sprain was and what happened, how he was moving afterwards. We’ll keep an eye on him, see how he responds and how he recovers. Hopefully it’s not a long-term thing.”
The Pistons initially listed Thompson as doubtful earlier in the week before upgrading his status as his recovery progressed.
Pistons Hoping to Regain Defensive Catalyst
Detroit’s system has relied heavily on Thompson’s defensive presence, particularly his ability to pressure ball handlers and disrupt pick-and-roll actions.
His instincts and athleticism frequently create transition opportunities that fuel the Pistons’ offense.
If Thompson returns Sunday against Toronto, Detroit would regain one of its most disruptive perimeter defenders at a critical point in the season.
For a Pistons team looking to finish the year strong and maintain its standing in the Eastern Conference, Thompson’s availability could provide a significant boost down the stretch.