Slow Duren Talks Headline Pistons’ Offseason Priorities
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Contract negotiations between the Detroit Pistons and restricted free-agent center Jalen Duren have stalled, according to The Athletic’s Hunter Patterson. While free agency opened with Duren meeting the Lakers and Kings to gauge potential sign-and-trade options, sources said Detroit never seriously considered parting with the All-NBA big man. The Lakers’ subsequent acquisition of Walker Kessler from Utah further reduced Duren’s external leverage.
Keeping Duren remains Detroit’s leading offseason objective, and team officials remain confident a deal will get done, Patterson reported. Both sides are said to be working toward an agreement viewed as mutually beneficial, and indications point to Duren ultimately re-signing with the club.
Thompson Extension Next in Line
The Pistons also intend to lock up Ausar Thompson on a long-term rookie-scale extension, though that matter is less urgent because the wing will not reach restricted free agency until 2027.
Star-Level Trade Talks Went Nowhere
Detroit explored the market for marquee talent—including Kawhi Leonard, Kyrie Irving, Kevin Durant, and Trey Murphy III—but backed away after encountering steep asking prices, multiple sources told Patterson. Instead, the front office expressed satisfaction with the roster and the shooting help it added in Isaiah Joe, John Collins, Taurean Prince, and Gary Harris.
Financial Motive Behind Stewart Deal
The decision to send Isaiah Stewart to Memphis was driven mainly by salary considerations. Backup big man Paul Reed carries a non-guaranteed $5.6 million for 2026-27, far below Stewart’s guaranteed $15 million for the same season. Although Stewart had several public disputes with coaches over his limited playoff minutes, those incidents reportedly played a minor role in the trade.
Collins In, Harris Out
Detroit briefly discussed a new contract with former Piston Tobias Harris, but a gap in valuation pushed Harris to accept a two-year, $31 million deal with San Antonio. The Pistons instead landed John Collins on a three-year, $51 million sign-and-trade; only the first season is guaranteed. The club believes Collins, six years younger than Harris, can provide both lob finishing and floor spacing alongside young core pieces Cade Cunningham, Duren, and Thompson.
Quiet Finish Expected
Patterson added that Detroit is unlikely to pursue another major external addition before training camp, making it probable the opening-night roster closely resembles the current lineup.
Source: Hoops Rumors
