Detroit Pistons wing Ausar Thompson returns from blood clots: 'It feels great'

Thompson missed the Pistons' first 23 games of the season following training camp after suffering blood clots in his lungs.

Detroit Pistons wing Ausar Thompson returned to the team's G League affiliate, the Motor City Cruise, on Wednesday after missing the first 23 games of the season following training camp after suffering blood clots in his lungs.

Thompson averaged 28.8 points, 7.0 rebounds and 4.2 assists in 25 games for the Cruise last season.

The 21-year-old was selected by the Pistons with the 17th overall pick in the 2021 NBA draft. He is averaging 19.0 points, 7.5 rebounds and 4.5 assists in three games for the Cruise this season.

Thompson said he's feeling good and excited to be back on the court.

"It feels great," Thompson said. "I'm just happy to be back out there playing and helping my team win."

Thompson said he's not sure when he'll be ready to return to the Pistons, but he's hoping it will be soon.

"I'm just taking it one day at a time," Thompson said. "I'm not trying to rush anything. I just want to make sure I'm healthy and ready to go when I get back."

Pistons coach Dwane Casey said he's excited to have Thompson back in the fold.

"He's a talented player who can really help us," Casey said. "We're just going to take it slow with him and make sure he's ready to go when he gets back."

The Pistons are 5-18 this season and are in last place in the Eastern Conference.