The Detroit Pistons Big Question About a 22-Year-Old Center Entering the 26-27 Season
Jalen Duren has earned himself a payday. In 2025-2026, the Pistons finished 60-22 and topped the Eastern Conference for the first time in 20 years. Duren was a major contributor to this historic turnaround, averaging a double-double with 19.5 points and 10.5 rebounds per game. His play earned him a first NBA All-Star selection and a spot on the All-NBA Third Team this past season. However, the Pistons haven’t been as quick to give the Pennsylvania native the maximum contract extension he’s eligible for this offseason. So why hasn't Detroit locked up such an important player yet?
Nothing conclusive has come out of the organization on this matter. The 2004 NBA Champions have yet to comment publicly on Duren’s contract situation, so everything at this point is speculation. The Memphis alum’s postseason play did not leave a pleasant taste in Detroit fans' mouths, with his 10.2 points and 8.5 rebounds per game not living up to his regular-season standards. In particular, fans have rightfully criticized the six-foot-ten big man for shrinking when his squad’s playoff life is in danger. He scored just seven points and recorded only 26 minutes during Game 7 against the Cleveland Cavaliers.
According to reports, there also seems to be a disconnect during the negotiations between the two camps. The Pistons’ starting center rejected a five-year offer worth nearly $190 million, which makes his intention to bet on himself and hopefully increase that number abundantly clear. The player could accept the $9.6 million deal that’s currently on the table, but he’d miss out on more than $100 million in additional guaranteed money. The benefit of that option is more autonomy in landing the new maximum contract he sought, perhaps even in a different city. The finances have become even more complicated after the organization agreed to give guard Ausar Thompson $155 million over five years. After also considering Cade Cunningham and his current contract, assembling a young core for teams like Detroit may limit budget flexibility in future salary talks.
Likely, the fifth-year player will play in the upcoming campaign without a new deal. Duren’s camp seems unwilling to accept anything less than the top deal, especially since he can prove his prime is worth big bucks. It’s entirely possible the Pistons have to meet their young center at the top. Otherwise, don’t be surprised if Detroit’s dominant rebounder either forces his way or walks out.
