Top 10 NBA rookies through first half of 2023-24 season

6. Ausar Thompson, F, Detroit Pistons

The Pistons have had a historically bad start to the 2023-24 season, but one of the lone bright spots has been the play of Thompson who they drafted fifth overall this past June. Thompson is an athletically-gifted player and a strong defender which has been on full display in the first half of the season. The 6-foot-6 forward also continues to develop his offensive game, averaging 8.2 points, 6.8 rebounds and 2.1 assists while shooting over 45% from the field. Thompson hasn’t seen quite as many minutes over the past month, perhaps in part due to a facial fracture suffered in late November, but he has proven his potential with this young team and should continue to get better with time.