Ausar Thompson's Offense Could Make or Break Pistons Playoff Run

NBA analyst Zach Lowe highlights the Pistons' playoff hopes hinge on Ausar Thompson's offensive growth to complement his strong defensive skills.

Published on Feb. 13, 2026

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The Detroit Pistons have shown strong form throughout the season, but their chances of a deep playoff run hinge on the development of Ausar Thompson's offensive skills. NBA analyst Zach Lowe emphasizes that Thompson's ability to score and create plays will determine how effective the Pistons' top lineup can be in the playoffs, especially alongside Jalen Duren and their defensive strategy.

Why it matters

While Thompson has excelled on defense, earning the Eastern Conference Defensive Player of the Month for January, his offensive contributions have not matched expectations. Playoff success requires a more complete game, and Thompson's current offensive output threatens to limit the Pistons' potential.

The details

Thompson is averaging 10.2 points per game, a marginal increase from last season, which does not provide a reliable scoring option for Detroit. His struggles in halfcourt offense create challenges, especially when sharing the floor with star players Cade Cunningham and Jalen Duren. The Pistons have frequently reduced Thompson's minutes, limiting him to around 26 minutes per game, as his offensive development remains a barrier to more significant playing time, especially in pressure-packed playoff situations.

  • The Pistons have shown strong form throughout the 2026 NBA season.

The players

Ausar Thompson

A Pistons player who has excelled on defense, earning the Eastern Conference Defensive Player of the Month for January, but has struggled with his offensive contributions.

Zach Lowe

An NBA analyst who emphasizes that Thompson's ability to score and create plays will determine how effective the Pistons' top lineup can be in the playoffs.

Cade Cunningham

A star player for the Pistons who plays alongside Thompson.

Jalen Duren

A star player for the Pistons who plays alongside Thompson.

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What they’re saying

“Ausar Thompson's ability to score and create plays will determine how effective the Pistons' top lineup can be in the playoffs, especially alongside Jalen Duren and their defensive strategy.”

— Zach Lowe, NBA Analyst (theconwaybulletin.com)

The takeaway

The Pistons' playoff hopes hinge on Ausar Thompson's ability to develop a more reliable and versatile offensive game to complement his defensive strengths and fit effectively alongside Detroit's All-Stars, Cade Cunningham and Jalen Duren.