Jalen Duren says he will attack paint harder after quiet Game 1
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DETROIT — Detroit Pistons center Jalen Duren promised a far more assertive approach in Game 2 of the Eastern Conference first-round series against the Orlando Magic after attempting only four field goals in Sunday’s opener.
Duren remained on the practice court long after Tuesday’s session, battling three assistant coaches in post drills to mimic the crowded lanes Orlando used to hold him to eight points and seven rebounds in Game 1.
“That’s not enough,” Duren said of his 3-for-4 shooting performance, repeating the phrase twice. “I just have to be better for my guys.”
The fourth-year All-Star, a finalist for Most Improved Player, averaged 19.5 points, 10.5 rebounds and shot 65% during the regular season. His production helped Detroit win 60 games and secure the East’s No. 1 seed.
Orlando, which grabbed the eighth seed by beating Charlotte 121-90 in Friday’s play-in game, packed the paint and collapsed on Duren throughout its 98-92 upset on Sunday. The Magic’s renewed defensive intensity caught Detroit off guard, according to Duren.
“We know the type of team we are,” he said. “We feel like we’re the better team. We just have to make adjustments and come out smarter, play harder.”
A key change involves easing the scoring burden on Cade Cunningham, who scored 39 points with five rebounds and four assists in Game 1. Tobias Harris was the only other Piston in double figures with 17 points.
Head coach J.B. Bickerstaff said Detroit must reconnect with its physical identity and ensure Duren touches the ball in varied spots. “We have to put the ball in his hands,” Bickerstaff noted. “They did a good job of pinching his pick-and-rolls, but we have to let him touch it in different places so he can be effective.”
Game 2 of the best-of-seven series is Wednesday night at Little Caesars Arena.
Source: ESPN
