Years ago, when the 65-game rule for NBA Awards eligibility was announced, Draymond Green criticized the rule and cited concerns about “bums” making All-NBA as a result. He was specifically concerned about undeserving players receiving the honor over true stars who barely missed the cutoff, and then demanding supermax extensions.
Unfortunately for the Pistons, that eligibility rule is coming back to bite them after Jalen Duren became eligible for a supermax contract. Using the term “bum” to describe Duren is obviously excessive, but his All-NBA selection did hinge on other players being ineligible. And now that’s led to a drawn-out contract negotiation where Duren’s camp has demanded a monstrous contract which wouldn’t have been in play otherwise.
Draymond was right all along
Not only did the modern CBA make it possible for players like Duren to make All-NBA, it also increased punishments for excessive spending. Giving Duren a supermax contract could doom them to a purgatory of not getting Cade Cunningham a proper costar. The first and second apron restrictions make it more important than ever to avoid overpaying players.
As Draymond accurately noted, the supermax eligibility is really where the problems start. The Pistons should have been happy to see their 22-year-old center get the prestigious honor, but are instead suffering from its consequences. This could’ve all been avoided with a CBA that was either less restrictive on salary cap thresholds or more willing to forgive players for missing games in All-NBA voting.
Once money comes into the equation, discussions get more heated and players aren't willing to compromise as much. In Duren's case, it's led to conflict between him and the front office for an entire offseason. That was the last thing the Pistons needed this summer, when they should have been making moves to improve and elevate to title contenders.
Duren still needs to prove his worth
Because so many All-NBA regulars were absent from the voting ballot last season, Duren isn't viewed as an All-NBA talent despite getting the official nod. His playoff showing, when he averaged just 10 points per game across 14 total games, only added to that perception. Not only do fans and the league at large not view him as a top player, but neither does his own team.
The Pistons are reportedly nowhere close to giving Duren the maximum contract he could receive, which would potentially pay out $287 million over 5 years. Detroit is likely seeking a much cheaper deal under $40 million per season, while Duren feels he's deserved something close to a max.
Duren took a big bet on himself by entering last season without a contract extension and proved he was worthy of more money than previously projected. But his playoff collapse and outdated playstyle also cap his value to the Pistons. Even with an All-NBA selection, he can't expect any team to pay him a supermax contract without expanding his game more and translating it to the playoffs.
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