5. Ausar Thompson, Detroit Pistons
Stats: 11.3 PPG, 10.1 RPG, 3.2 APG, 43.9 FG%
Through the first month of the season, Ausar Thompson has emerged as one of the most intriguing rookies in the league. The fact that he's been a starter from day 1 for the Detroit Pistons is a testament to his work ethic and the raw talent that he possesses. Early on, it's been Thompson's overall athleticism and defense that has turned heads across the league.
Of all the full-time starting rookies in the NBA, Thompson ranks second in defensive rating. Chet Holmgren is the only other full-time starting rookie that has a better defensive rating for his team. Thompson also averages nearly two blocks per game and more than one steal per contest.
Thompson clearly still has a ways to go on the offensive end of the floor and was always going to be a work in progress, but the early signs are encouraging for the Pistons. If he continues to develop, there's good chance he ends up being a starter for the Pistons for a very long time. This is just the beginning for Thompson.