Detroit Pistons center Jalen Duren remains unsigned as a restricted free agent over a month into the NBA free agency period, prompting public support from his former frontcourt partner Isaiah Stewart, according to reports by BasketUSA. Duren, who earned his first All-Star selection and an All-NBA nod during the 2025–26 season, is currently navigating a high-stakes contract negotiation with the Michigan franchise.
Detroit Pistons Face Contract Impasse with Jalen Duren
The Detroit Pistons hold the right to match any offer sheet Duren signs with another team after extending a qualifying offer to the restricted free agent. However, according to BasketUSA, the two sides have yet to reach an agreement on a multi-year contract. Duren is coming off a breakout 2025–26 campaign where he averaged 19.5 points, 10.5 rebounds, and 2 assists per game while shooting 65% from the field, anchoring a Pistons squad that secured the top seed in the Eastern Conference with a 60-22 record. Despite his regular-season dominance, Duren’s production dipped in the postseason to 10.2 points and 8.5 rebounds across 14 playoff games, a factor that enters into the economic evaluation of his next deal according to league analysts.
Isaiah Stewart Weighs In on Former Teammate’s Value
Isaiah Stewart, now a member of the Memphis Grizzlies following a June trade that ended his six-year tenure with Detroit as reported by NBA.com, has publicly advocated for his former teammate. Bickerstaff frequently described Duren and Stewart as having a brotherhood that persisted through on-court tensions. According to BasketUSA, Stewart believes the franchise should make a decisive financial investment in the center, arguing that his performance justifies a lucrative extension. The trade of Stewart to Memphis cleared approximately $30 million in combined salary over the next two seasons, providing the Pistons with financial flexibility as they determine their long-term commitment to Duren alongside franchise cornerstone Cade Cunningham.