NBA Draft Big Board: Washington Wizards should be thrilled to land one of these 5 prospects
By Cem Yolbulan
2. Ausar Thompson
One of the most dynamic and explosive athletes in the draft, Ausar Thompson has all the physical tools to become a star in the league. The 6’7 guard could potentially play any position between the 1 and the 3.
It is impossible to not fall into the habit of comparing the two identical twins, Ausar and Amen. It is even more difficult considering the similarities of their games. Just like his brother, Ausar is a freak athlete with effortless speed and bounce.
The Thompson brothers’ unique path to the NBA makes them to difficult to evaluate as prospects. But, their skill level jumps off the screen immediately. On top of being the fastest, most athletic player on the court, Ausar also has advanced ball-handling ability with the potential to be a pick & roll operator. He can pass out of the action, or get all the way to the rim. He is aggressive in attacking the rim, but he is not the natural scorer his brother is.
On the other hand, he is a menace on the defensive end. Putting pressure on the ball, getting through screens, moving laterally, and being active in help defense, Ausar projects to be an elite perimeter defender.
However, his shooting form and accuracy are less than ideal. Most likely he might need to completely change his mechanics. He can create his own shot but fails to make it at a high-enough mark.
As a prospect, Ausar Thompson’s floor may be lower than his fellow classmen’s. He may never learn to shoot at a good enough level. But, if he can even get his shot to a respectable enough level, he could be an unstoppable force for a long-time.