Jalen Duren Looks ‘Really Good’ as Pistons Coach Reveals Explosive Growth After $200M Extension
· Yahoo Sports
It was a long road for the Detroit Pistons to have Jalen Duren return over the summer. Fortunately for the Pistons, Duren eventually agreed to a five-year, $200 million extension on Friday. Throughout the offseason, it was a back-and-forth negotiation for the NBA star and the franchise.
The big man was eligible to sign a five-year, $287 million maximum contract after he was named to the All-NBA Third Team. However, Detroit was not ready to give Duren a massive deal, especially after an underwhelming postseason performance. Their initial offer was a four-year, $190 million deal, which he declined.
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On Wednesday, head coach JB Bickerstaff praised the star big man for his improvement over the summer.
Apr 4, 2026; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA; Jalen Duren #0 of the Detroit Pistons during warmups against the Philadelphia 76ers at Xfinity Mobile Arena. Mandatory Credit: Eric Hartline-Imagn Images“It’s one of those things that he’s done a really good job of making small improvements all around,” Bickerstaff said. “He’s appears to be faster, more explosive. His face-up game has improved. His work around the basket has improved as well, defensively being in his right spots, being switchable and being able to guard smaller guys so far.
“So he’s looked really good.”
Jalen Duren remains an important part of the Pistons’ championship aspirations. Last season, he became an All-Star for the first time, averaging 19.5 points, 10.5 rebounds and 2.0 assists. However, he disappointed in the playoffs, averaging 10.2 points and 8.5 rebounds.
Bickerstaff added that the team’s plan is to play the star center with three games left in the preseason. He told reporters the coaching staff is being cautious with how they approach putting Duren in a game.
Jalen Duren Wants to Be a Piston For Life
Although it took a while for the Pistons to re-sign Jalen Duren, he intends to stay committed to the organization. The NBA star spoke to the media on Sunday and expressed his plan to remain in Detroit for a long time.
“I am a Detroit Piston,” said Duren. “I want to be a Detroit Piston for life. I want to give everything I’ve got for this city and the fans. And from me to y’all, y’all would have everything I have. Y’all will get everything I can give. And to the city, I want the city to know that I truly do believe in what we’re building.”
Duren also said that his playoff performance was “humbling” and that he knows he needs to improve. He spent the offseason watching film to explore what areas of his game need improvement.
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