TITLE: Pistons and Jalen Duren Remain Apart on New Deal; Clippers Cool on Kawhi Trade Talk; Bulls Pick Up Leonard Miller Option
SLUG: pistons-duren-contract-holdout-clippers-kawhi-status-bulls-miller-option
CONTENT:
The Detroit Pistons and restricted free-agent center Jalen Duren have not bridged a sizable gap in contract negotiations, league sources told ClutchPoints. The 22-year-old is reportedly seeking a maximum contract, a figure Detroit has yet to approach. Despite the deadlock, the Pistons are unwilling to explore sign-and-trade scenarios and still plan to keep the former lottery pick.
The Los Angeles Lakers, once linked to Duren, are not expected to make a bid this offseason, according to the report. Los Angeles is instead monitoring Charlotte Hornets big man Naz Reid, though Charlotte has indicated no interest in moving him after adding the center in the LaMelo Ball trade. The Hornets remain open to offers for veteran forward Miles Bridges.
Clippers Holding Firm on Kawhi Leonard
Sources said the LA Clippers are not shopping seven-time All-Star Kawhi Leonard, though the front office is willing to field calls. The Warriors, Timberwolves and Pistons held preliminary conversations with the Clippers before February’s trade deadline, but none advanced toward a deal.
Bulls Guarantee Leonard Miller for 2024-25
The Chicago Bulls have exercised their $2.4 million team option on forward Leonard Miller, per Spotrac’s Keith Smith. Miller averaged 11.7 points and 5.8 rebounds in 27 games after arriving from Minnesota in the Ayo Dosunmu trade, prompting Chicago to lock in his salary for next season.
Chicago also picked up the option on forward Mouhamadou Gueye before including him in the Nic Claxton trade with the Timberwolves. Looking to free agency, the Bulls are expected to consider forward John Collins. The San Antonio Spurs and Philadelphia 76ers are also viewed as potential bidders for Collins.
Source: Hoops Wire
