Pistons' Jalen Duren Eyes $185M Payday

Detroit center Jalen Duren is having a breakout in his fourth season and is lining himself up for a "huge payday," league execs told ESPN — possibly in the neighborhood of Alperen Şengün’s five-year, $185 million deal. Duren, a restricted free agent next summer, is averaging 19.0 points on 65.7% shooting and 11.5 rebounds while driving a 17–5 Pistons start, making his contract talk crucial for Detroit’s young core. Merlin sees a rising star sharpening his craft. Duren admitted, "When I first came in, people had me pegged as a pick-and-roll, dunker's spot, lob threat... I got a lot more to my game," and at 22 he has All-Star and MIP upside; as a restricted free agent Detroit can match offers, but expect serious suitors.