What Pistons free agent rumors could mean for Jaden Ivey and Jalen Duren

Free-agent Nic Claxton could send Jalen Duren to the bench or to another team 

One of the biggest disservices the Pistons have done Jalen Duren is not putting a veteran center around him as competition and a guy he can learn from. They did this at the end of last season with Taj Gibson, who did seem to give Duren a boost. 

At this point, we all know what Duren needs to improve, which is his defense. He’s already a good rebounder and tough around the rim, but until he starts blocking shots and getting more effective on switches and drop defense, he shouldn’t be an NBA starter. 

Duren is only 20 and his recent comments show he knows exactly what he has to improve. 

Adding a rim protector like Claxton could be the thing that pushes Duren to the next level or could be the guy that pushes Duren to another team. If the Pistons sign Claxton, would they then look to trade Duren? 

It’s also possible the two could just compete for and share minutes, as they do have complementary skills no matter which one comes off the bench. Given the way Duren gets in foul trouble, coming off the bench in a slightly smaller role may suit him. 

Even the rumor of Claxton shows the Pistons aren’t entirely happy with Duren, so I expect that they will bring in some form of competition for the young center one way or another. Landing Claxton could mean the end of Duren in Detroit, but it could also just mean an adjusted role and more competition.