Ausar

Thompson

The Pistons don’t look to Thompson for much offensive production, but his deficiencies on that end were a problem against the Cavaliers. While the elite defensive ability is why Ausar logs heavy minutes, the inability to shoot was just as problematic for Detroit as center Jalen Duren’s struggles. Extension-eligible this summer, Thompson must make strides on offense to not only raise Detroit’s ceiling but his as well. Fantasy-wise, Ausar is capable of offering excellent value in category leagues, but only if he can expand his game.

Harris continues to provide reliable scoring, having now scored 20 points or more in each of his last eight games. The Pistons’ forward shot the ball well in Game 3, making 50 percent of his attempts from the field overall. However, Harris recorded no assists or defensive stats after being responsible for two steals and two blocks in Detroit’s Game 2 victory. With Jalen Duren (11/4/1/2) and Ausar Thompson (nine points, seven rebounds, five assists and two blocks) continuing to underwhelm, this places more pressure on Harris to perform.

While Philadelphia’s Tyrese Mazey led all scorers with 23 points, Thompson did an outstanding job of making him work for everything. The 76ers’ point guard was able to get his, but he could not get others going. Maxey was responsible for just one assist, while Thompson recorded three steals and a blocked shot. Add in the points and rebounds, and the Pistons’ wing had a very good night in Philadelphia.

Thompson may not offer much as a scorer, but his ability to fill a stat line is why he remains valuable in category leagues. The third-year wing dished out a career-high nine assists on Thursday while also providing excellent value in rebounds, steals and blocks. Over his last three games, Thompson is responsible for 19 assists and six turnovers. He’ll have one more opportunity to fill the stat sheet on Saturday against the 76ers.

Thompson will be one of only a handful of Detroit’s regular rotation players available for Monday’s trip to Paycom Center. He’ll likely be tasked with guarding Shai Gilgeous-Alexander as the Pistons try to stay competitive in a tough spot.

Thompson is questionable for Monday’s game against the Thunder with right ankle injury management. With every other member of the Pistons starting lineup either ruled out already or listed as doubtful, Thompson could be a tough start even if he’s active due to the likelihood of a blowout.

Thompson was initially probable for Saturday’s game, so his status upgrade was expected. As for Robinson, he’s back in the lineup after being a late scratch for Thursday’s win over the Pelicans. His return pushes Kevin Huerter to the bench.

Thompson is on track to play after logging 29 minutes in Thursday’s win over the Pelicans. While Cade Cunningham (lung) being out frees up additional playmaking opportunities for others, including Thompson, he did not record an assist on Thursday. However, Ausar was responsible for three steals and two blocked shots.

Thompson played through the ankle injury on Thursday but could end up missing this game. Ron Holland would likely be next in line to step into a starting spot, though with Tobias Harris and Jalen Duren questionable as well, there could be multiple open places in the starting frontcourt.

Duren, Thompson and Harris have been upgraded from probable to available. They’ll take on their usual roles as part of the Pistons’ starting lineup.