The Detroit Pistons are in ongoing contract negotiations with Jalen Duren, their restricted free agent center, with talks expected to extend into August or September.
Pistons advisor and former coach Dwane Casey addressed Duren's contract status during Summer League action, emphasizing the team's commitment to keeping him.
"He's ours," Casey said. "We're happy to have him. I know Trajan is excited, J.B. loves him. Hopefully we get things worked out." Casey described Duren as a 22-year-old, 6-foot-11 center.
A league source said signing Duren is Detroit's top offseason priority despite recent sign-and-trade rumors.
Duren earned an All-Star selection alongside Cade Cunningham last season. Casey said he sees Duren as a paint protector and lob threat, while pointing to decision-making in the short-roll pocket as an area for growth—specifically how Duren handles extra defenders in the playoffs.
Duren's postseason numbers dipped from his regular season production, and the Pistons at times turned to Paul Reed over Duren in critical playoff situations.
Ausar Thompson has added muscle during the offseason, a physical development the team expects to factor into his play next season.
Detroit's rookie class includes Ebuka Okorie and Ugonna Onyenso, both of whom will need to prove themselves heading into training camp.
Cade Cunningham has reportedly played a role in the Pistons' efforts to recruit prominent free agents, with Detroit targeting Kevin Durant and Kawhi Leonard, among others.
