If the Detroit Pistons could go back in time a few months, they’d probably just sign Jalen Duren to an extension.
They didn’t of course, which is a decision that will end up being a costly one. Duren wanted $30 million a year, the Pistons didn’t want to pay that much, so JD bet on himself, and his gamble is paying off, but not so much for Detroit, at least financially.
The Pistons wanted to see this exact breakout Duren is currently having before they would commit, but the way Duren is playing right now, $30 million a year may end up looking like a bargain. Duren is the clear frontrunner for Most Improved Player right now and is emerging as the second star next to Cade Cunningham.
He’s been elite at the rim on both ends, has added to his offensive game and is just overwhelming defenders with his quickness and power. Duren is beating defenders off the dribble and has even launched a few jumpers lately, so we have to reconsider his offensive ceiling.
At just 22 years old and already one of the top centers in the Eastern Conference, Duren is now looking more like a max player, so the decision not to extend him will cost the Pistons more money.
The thing is, they don’t care.
Detroit Pistons: The risk was worth it with Jalen Duren
Duren came into this season with something to prove after putting in the work on his game in the offseason. He’s currently averaging over 20 points and 12 rebounds on over 60 percent from the floor. The only other players to match those numbers are Giannis Antetokounmpo and Nikola Jokic in case you were wondering.
The Pistons knew it was a gamble to not extend Duren, but it was one worth taking, as they wanted to see another level before committing to him as their second big contract. Having to pay him more means Duren made that leap and now the Pistons are happy to pay him.
He may get more than $30 million now, but not by much, and it’s a tax the Pistons are willing to eat considering the production he is giving them.
Duren also has a fairly low cap hold, so the Pistons can still use cap space to sign other guys before giving JD what will be a fat raise.
The Pistons’ cap sheet is clean and flexible, so a bit more for Duren isn’t really going to matter.
The Pistons were protecting themselves against Duren plateauing and if it went the other way, great, as it means they have a future All-NBA center on their hands.