NBA Power Rankings: Tiering all 30 projected starting small forwards for 2023-24

22. Ausar Thompson, Detroit Pistons

Heading into the 2023 NBA Draft, Ausar Thompson was graded as one of the best prospects. In fact, leading up to the draft, there were a few draft prognosticators who believed Ausar was actually a better prospect than his brother, Amen, who went two picks earlier. All in all, it’s safe to say that the Detroit Pistons are getting a player with a very high ceiling. But that could make his rookie season difficult to digest.

For as high of a ceiling as Thompson has, there’s a chance that he will take some time to truly find his footing in the NBA. He didn’t play college ball and, instead, is making the jump to the NBA after spending time with Overtime Elite. The good news is that the Pistons may be a great spot for him to slowly come along. Detroit isn’t under any pressure to win and Thompson will be able to develop around other extremely talented young players.

If Thompson can prove that he can be a consistent 3-point shooter right away, he’ll have the chance to develop into one of the more complete players from this year’s draft class. He can defend, is a good playmaker, and has the size that you want from a future star.