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Last week, and after eight months of waiting, Ausar Thompson received the medical green light from the NBA's Fitness to Play Panel. Blocked due to a blood clot, the Pistons player would finally be able to find his teammates and the pitch. But, despite this good news, it is not yet yet.
“It’s still in progress,” says JB Bickerstaff. “It’s obvious he’s taking steps in the right direction.” He can move, run, play five-on-five, do those kinds of things. Now there is also the recovery, how he feels the next day. We will continue working until it is ready. »
Another strong defender
The coach and the Detroit franchise cannot therefore give any precise date for the player's return. Furthermore, they have no interest in rushing things, in order to avoid taking risks.
“Every situation is different and the last thing we want is to put him on the field and make him uncomfortable,” confirms the Pistons coach. “We will continue to talk about it with him. The technical staff has an eye on him, the coaches too. »
However, as Michigan players have had a decent start to the season (7 wins for 9 losses) and they have the 9th best defense in the league, adding Ausar Thompson, a very good defender, to this equation can whet the appetite.
“He’s a guy who can eliminate the opponent’s best player,” analyzed JB Bickerstaff last week. “It can provide a boost. He can change in defense, defend in several positions. He is so versatile, we will allow him to play to his strengths. »