For the second time in three summers, the Detroit Pistons have to get prepared to make a hefty offer to one of their homegrown talents in Jalen Duren.
Before the 2025-2026 NBA season, Duren and the Pistons failed to agree on terms for an extension. Duren’s side should feel great about where they are with the gamble.
The star center had a career year. He was named an All-Star for the first time, and could be on pace to earn All-NBA. If he lands that nod, then the price tag only goes higher for the Pistons, who will have Duren as a restricted free agent in 2026.
How Much Can Jalen Duren Make In Free Agency?
GettyDETROIT, MICHIGAN – MARCH 28: Isaiah Stewart #28 and Jalen Duren #0 of the Detroit Pistons celebrate their win against the Cleveland Cavaliers at Little Caesars Arena on March 28, 2025 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 Nic Antaya/Getty Images)
One has to assume at this point that Jalen Duren is a max contract candidate.
In 68 games, Duren has averaged 19.5 points (64.6% FG), 10.6 rebounds, 1.9 assists, and nearly 1.0 blocks per game.
The 22-year-old is clearly one of the best centers in the game. If the Pistons don’t offer him the max, somebody else will.
The Detroit Free Press recently offered a rundown on Duren’s financial situation.
GettyDETROIT, MICHIGAN – JANUARY 15: Jalen Duren #0 of the Detroit Pistons grabs a first half rebound while playing the Phoenix Suns at Little Caesars Arena on January 15, 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)
A max contract without an All-NBA nod for Duren would rack up roughly $239 million over five years. If he lands the votes to get on the All-NBA list, that number could increase to an estimated $287 million.
When it comes to outside teams making an offer, they’ll be limited to $177.4 million over four years, according to The Detroit Free Press.
The Pistons signed Cade Cunningham to a max extension, which kicked in this year. He picked up a five-year, $269.08 million deal.
Does Jalen Duren Want To Stay With The Pistons?
GettyDETROIT, MICHIGAN – NOVEMBER 17: Jalen Duren #0 of the Detroit Pistons reacts after he dunks in the first half against the Indiana Pacers at Little Caesars Arena on November 17, 2025 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 Rick Osentoski/Getty Images)-double this season.
Duren has made it clear that he wants to continue playing for the Pistons long-term. Of course, he needs to get what he deserves from a financial standpoint, though.
When Cade Cunningham inked his max deal, he was about to come off a $45.5 million rookie contract. He didn’t take any hometown discounts.
Duren is currently in the midst of a four-year, $19.4 million contract. Every player wants to cash in on their big payday. Duren shouldn’t be any different.
Like Heavy Sports’s content? Be sure to follow us.
This article was originally published on Heavy Sports
The post Jalen Duren Contract Situation With Pistons Explained appeared first on Heavy Sports.