Pistons Rookie Ausar Thompson Exits Win Over Heat With Lower-Body Injury

October 24, 2026 - 12:53

Detroit Pistons forward Ausar Thompson left Friday's game against the Miami Heat with an apparent lower-body injury, adding to concerns after Jalen Duren's exit.

Thompson, the fifth overall pick in the 2023 draft, was forced out of the contest after logging limited minutes. The team did not immediately provide specifics on the nature or severity of the injury, and his status going forward remains uncertain.

The Pistons secured the win over Miami, but the victory came at a cost. Duren, Detroit's starting center, had already departed earlier in the game, leaving the team thin in the frontcourt. Thompson's exit further depleted a rotation that has struggled with health issues throughout the season.

Thompson has been a bright spot in an otherwise difficult year for Detroit, contributing energy on both ends of the floor. His defensive versatility and rebounding have stood out, and his development has been a key focus for the organization.

The Pistons have not announced whether Thompson will undergo further evaluation or imaging. The team is expected to provide an update before its next game. Detroit's coaching staff will likely lean on deeper bench options if both Thompson and Duren are unavailable.

Friday's result showed the team's resilience, but the injuries to two young core players loom as a bigger concern for a franchise building around their development.