Sources: Pistons' Ausar Thompson (blood clots) OK'd to play

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Detroit Pistons forward Ausar Thompson has been cleared to play by the NBA's fitness panel, sources told ESPN.

Thompson, the No. 5 pick in the 2023 NBA draft, has been sidelined since March due to a blood clot issue and will now begin ramping up and participating in full-contact practices for the first time in eight months.

Both Thompson and Los Angeles Lakers 7-footer Christian Koloko dealt with blood clots and received clearances from the league's fitness-to-play panel.

Thompson averaged 8.8 points, 6.4 rebounds, 1.9 assists and nearly one block per game in 63 contests as a rookie for the Pistons last season. He was one of three rookies with 50 steals and 50 blocks in…