The Los Angeles Lakers are intensifying their pursuit of Detroit Pistons restricted free-agent center Jalen Duren, arranging a second conversation for Wednesday morning after what league sources described as a “productive” introductory call on Tuesday, according to Sam Amick of The Athletic.
During Tuesday’s discussion, the Lakers told the 22-year-old they regard him as a maximum-salary player, sources said. A max offer sheet would be required to pry Duren away from Detroit, which has repeatedly stated it will match any contract he signs but has not yet put a max deal on the table.
Interest from multiple teams
Duren also met Tuesday with the Sacramento Kings, who conveyed similar enthusiasm and indicated they will explore sign-and-trade possibilities. Sacramento’s involvement adds pressure on Detroit either to meet a potential max figure, allow the center to leave for nothing or engineer a trade to recoup assets.
Duren’s résumé
The Memphis product is coming off his best NBA season, earning All-NBA Third Team honors while helping the Pistons secure the No. 1 seed in the Eastern Conference. Although his postseason performance declined, his age and production have positioned him as one of the most coveted young big men on the market.
Lakers’ frontcourt priorities
Los Angeles entered free agency targeting youthful size, meeting in person with Utah Jazz restricted free agent Walker Kessler the same day it spoke with Duren. Recent reports have labeled Kessler the Lakers’ preferred option, but the franchise appears to be weighing both possibilities before committing its cap space.
If the Lakers ultimately extend a max offer to Duren, he would join a core featuring Luka Dončić and Austin Reaves, signaling the club’s confidence in his long-term growth as a premier center.
Source: Lakers Nation
