The Detroit Pistonsâ summer of negotiating with Jalen Duren is off to a rough start.
Although Duren wrapped up the 2025-2026 NBA season with an All-NBA performance, his playoff struggles cost him millions in value come negotiation time.
The Pistons have made an offer so far. According to The Athleticâs Sam Amick, Duren and his camp are âunderwhelmed.â
So, whatâs next?
Detroit Pistons Get Bad Jalen Duren News Before NBA Free Agency
GettyCLEVELAND, OHIO – MAY 15: Jalen Duren #0 of the Detroit Pistons comes off the court during the fourth quarter against the Cleveland Cavaliers in Game Six of the Second Round of the NBA Eastern Conference Playoffs at Rocket Arena on May 15, 2026 in Cleveland, Ohio. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Gregory Shamus/Getty Images)
âThe gap between the sides is large enough that Duren is considering ways to land elsewhere, with the sign-and-trade route deemed preferable to signing an offer sheet with another team that the Pistons could, and likely would, match,â Amick reported on Friday, June 26.
While there is still plenty of time for Duren and the Pistons to find a common ground, it certainly seems like the star centerâs camp is willing to play hardball in negotiations.
Considering the Pistons have been hunting for a third star this offseason, they might have to acquire one by using Durenâs new deal.
Should The Pistons Increase The Offer?
GettyDETROIT, MICHIGAN – MAY 05: Jalen Duren #0 of the Detroit Pistons drives to the rim against the Cleveland Cavaliers in Game One of the Second Round of the NBA Eastern Conference Playoffs at Little Caesars Arena on May 05, 2026 in Detroit, Michigan. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Gregory Shamus/Getty Images)
Ultimately, the answer comes down to two things: Can the Pistons find another star to swap out Duren with? And is Cade Cunningham comfortable with moving on?
In the weeks leading up to the draft, it was reported that Cunningham wants Duren back with the Pistons, as they developed together over the past few seasons. Keeping the franchise cornerstone happy is a key to Detroitâs success.
But the Pistons also have to find a player worth trading for in order to feel comfortable with losing Duren.
While the playoff scenario was bad to seeâespecially considering the third-string center had to close out games at timesâDuren still had a strong season. He wasnât an All-Star and All-NBA candidate for nothing.
In 70 games, Duren posted an average of 19.5 points, 10.5 rebounds, and 0.8 blocks.
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