While Ausar Thompson is still developing his offensive value for the Detroit Pistons, the young standout’s defensive performance through his first few seasons has been remarkable.
With another outstanding defensive effort in the 2026 NBA Playoffs, Thompson reached an impressive feat on the defensive side of the ball. He’s in great company with a legendary Piston and one of the best to play the game.
via Real App on X: Ausar Thompson is the 3rd fastest player in NBA playoff history to reach 35+ STL & 25+ BLK. Behind only Ben Wallace & Michael Jordan.
Behind only Ben Wallace & Michael Jordan.
The Pistons Snatch Game 6 vs Cavaliers
NEW YORK, NEW YORK – APRIL 29: Ausar Thompson #9 of the Detroit Pistons dribbles during the third quarter in Game Five of the Eastern Conference First Round NBA Playoffs against the New York Knicks at Madison Square Garden on April 29, 2025 in New York City. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Sarah Stier/Getty Images)
Thompson checked in for 24 minutes against the Cavaliers for Game 6 on Friday night.
Offensively, he was quiet. Thompson shot 4-6 from the field and went 2-3 from the charity stripe to score 10 points. He nearly notched a double-double with his nine rebounds.
As usual, Thompson led the game in steals. He snatched four of the Pistons’ nine steals in the matchup. The young veteran also blocked one of six shots.
The Pistons defeated the Cavaliers 115-94.
GettyCHICAGO, ILLINOIS – OCTOBER 22: Ausar Thompson #9 of the Detroit Pistons looks on against the Chicago Bulls during the first half at the United Center on October 22, 2025 in Chicago, Illinois. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Michael Reaves/Getty Images)
With that win, the Pistons have forced Game 7. Although they’ve been on a rough stretch, losing control of the series that they once led 2-0, Detroit is back on track with a do-or-die home game coming up on Sunday, May 17.
Leading up to Game 6, Thompson had appearances in all 12 games for the Pistons. Seeing the court for 31.2 minutes per game, he’s been averaging 8.3 points on 51.2% shooting from the field.
While Thompson hasn’t been as effective on the offensive end of the floor as his first playoff run with the Pistons, he’s been more productive defensively.
The third-year forward is producing 2.0 steals per game and blocking 1.8 shots per game. Since the playoffs started for the Pistons, Thompson has totaled 28 steals (league-leader) and 23 blocks.