TITLE: Pistons optimistic about retaining Jalen Duren despite contract gap
SLUG: pistons-optimistic-about-retaining-jalen-duren
CONTENT:
Detroit and All-NBA center Jalen Duren remain apart on contract terms, yet league sources expect the 22-year-old to stay with the Pistons, according to HoopsHype’s Michael Scotto.
Rival front-office executives told Scotto they anticipate Duren ultimately re-signing even though the two sides have not aligned financially. Duren is reportedly seeking roughly $40 million per season after earning All-NBA Third Team honors and finishing second in the 2023-24 Most Improved Player vote. Executives project Detroit’s offer to settle in the mid-$30 million range.
The organization has repeatedly stated it wants Duren back, and star guard Cade Cunningham is also pushing for a deal to be completed.
Other offseason priorities
Veteran forward Tobias Harris remains high on Detroit’s free-agency list. No agreement has been reached, and multiple teams are expected to pursue him if he reaches the open market.
Meanwhile, guard Marcus Sasser is reportedly available in trade talks after his minutes fell last season. The 2022 first-round pick is entering the final year of his rookie contract; without an extension, he would become a restricted free agent next summer.
The Pistons’ front office will continue negotiations and assessments as free agency approaches.
Source: Hoops Wire
