The 2023 NBA Draft is less than one week away and the Indiana Pacers wrapping up their individual pre-draft workouts. One of the scheduled player workouts has been canceled. Ausar Thompson, the twin of Amen Thompson, was set to have an individual workout with the Blue and Gold on Friday. However, news broke Thursday that he canceled.
The Pacers have already concluded four other individual workouts. Those players are Cam Whitmore of Villanova, Gradey Dick of Kansas, Jarace Walker of Houston, and Taylor Hendricks of Central Florida. Thompson would have been the team’s individual player workout.
So, this is somewhat significant news as he is one of three players the Pacers have largely considered in the draft. At this time, no reason has been given for why Thompson canceled his workout. It could mean that the young forward from Overtime Elite received assurances from a team drafting ahead of the Pacers seven. It could also mean that Ausar does not want to play for the Blue and Gold.
The teams that are drafting ahead of the Indiana Pacers, that are also most likely to pick Thompson are Houston at four, Detroit at 5, and Orlando at six. Any one of these teams could also be a good fit. Each one of those teams also needs a wing player.
Thompson canceling his workout could also mean absolutely nothing. At the NBA Draft Combine, he stated that he had a meeting with the Indiana Pacers. So, both parties have some familiarity. As previously mentioned, it’s no secret that Thompson is one of three players that the Pacers have been strongly mocked to.
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Ausar Thompson fills a Pacers’ need
Thompson doesn’t fit the Pacers’ biggest need, which is a power forward. However, he does fill the need for some added height and length. He’s a 6-foot-7 wing that is one of the more athletic players in this draft. He would fit in well with the young backcourt of the Blue and Gold.
Thompson would add some size and surely some athleticism to the unit. Now, there’s no question that he needs to better develop his shot. There is also the question as to how much the Indiana Pacers’ coaching staff can get out of Thompson.
When watching Ausar Thompson, it’s very easy to envision him being one of the best players of this draft class when looking back. He can be an offensive force, especially if he’s not asked to be the team’s first or second scoring option. He could be a key and integral part of the Pacers’ offense and their core.
On the other hand, if his offensive game, especially his jump shot, does not develop then he could follow the path of other young very athletic players. Meaning, there are a lot of highlights of him dunking or catching lobs. But also doing it in at least three different uniforms and then eventually being out of the league.
Indiana Pacers president of basketball operations Kevin Pritchard has even stated that they are looking for a player with a high ceiling. Thompson fits the criteria. And considering the team hasn’t too often picked this high in the draft, going after a player with such a high ceiling is certainly a good strategy.
Again, Thompson’s canceling of his workout with the Pacers doesn’t necessarily mean the team won’t draft him. But it certainly gives the impression that he may no longer be in consideration.