Ausar Thompson shows early signs of progress in new Pistons role

Maxwell Ogden of PistonPowered highlights Ausar Thompson's encouraging start to his expanded offensive role with the Detroit Pistons under head coach J.B. Bickerstaff. In the 2026-27 regular season opener against the Boston Celtics, Thompson delivered a well-rounded performance, tallying 11 points, 11 rebounds, five assists, and one steal. His contributions included aggressive drives, tough finishes, and a critical fourth-quarter clutch jump shot that helped halt a Celtics comeback.

While Ogden notes that opponents still exploit Thompson's reluctance to shoot three-pointers, his playmaking and midrange development show promising progress. Bickerstaff intends to entrust Thompson with more on-ball responsibilities, and his five assists against Boston offered an early indication of his growing comfort in that role.