Detroit Pistons Near Deal to Extend All-Star Center Jalen Duren

Restricted‑free‑agent center Jalen Duren, who posted a career‑high 19.5 points and 10.5 rebounds per game and earned All‑NBA Third Team honors, remains a cornerstone of the Detroit Pistons. After a series of roster moves—including trading Caris LeVert to Milwaukee and adding veteran wings Taurean Prince and Gary Harris—the Pistons cleared enough salary‑cap space to resume negotiations without breaching luxury‑tax thresholds.

NBA insiders say the team is closing in on a long‑term extension that could reach the 25% maximum allowed under the Rose Rule, though Detroit appears to be targeting a five‑year deal averaging around $35 million rather than the full max. The accelerated talks give the Pistons leverage after Duren’s limited interest from other franchises, while the extension would keep the young big man aligned with point guard Cade Cunningham and new teammate John Collins for Detroit’s future plans.