Image Source: NBA.com
[Saba Sports News] A former NBA lottery pick has been cleared to return after a lengthy absence due to a blood clot issue.
Detroit Pistons swingman Ausar Thompson received clearance from the NBA’s fitness panel and will now start full-contact practices, per ESPN’s Shams Charania.
The No. 5 overall pick in the 2023 NBA Draft is expected to make his season debut soon.
Thompson missed the last 14 games of his rookie season for blood clot treatment, sidelining him from full-contact basketball for eight months. Last season, he played 63 games, averaging 8.8 points, 6.4 rebounds, and 1.9 assists per game, showing strong defensive skills.
Thompson joined rookies Victor Wembanyama and Chet Holmgren as the only ones to notch at least 50 steals and 50 blocks.
The Pistons, with a 4-7 record, could benefit from Thompson’s return as he works to regain his rhythm.