NBA free agency stalls as Pistons and Hawks back off on key targets

Restricted free agent Jalen Duren and the Detroit Pistons remain far apart on contract terms. The Pistons are looking to pay the 22‑year‑old center roughly $30‑35 million per year, while Duren seeks a maximum‑salary deal. Negotiations have been paused and are expected to resume later in August, possibly extending into September.

The Atlanta Hawks have significantly reduced their interest in restricted free agent Peyton Watson, citing the high asking price from both Watson and the Denver Nuggets. The Cavaliers are also viewed skeptically, while the Los Angeles Clippers and Milwaukee Bucks are seen as more realistic sign‑and‑trade partners. Los Angeles has indicated willingness to include Derrick Jones Jr. in a potential deal, though the Nuggets’ position above the second tax apron blocks that option. Watson’s camp feels “disrespected” by the Nuggets’ offers.

Detroit has stopped pursuing Clippers restricted free agent Bennedict Mathurin, and the Knicks are reportedly in contact with several free agents to fill their third‑center need.