Detroit Pistons center Jalen Duren has returned to the team’s practice facility, where head coach J.B. Bickerstaff is overseeing his re-acclimation. Bickerstaff reporting visible improvements in the 22-year-old’s speed, explosiveness, and shooting mechanics. Following the conclusion of an offseason-long contract standoff, Duren is being eased back into activity and is expected to participate in a preseason game, potentially as early as Saturday’s road matchup against the Washington Wizards, the Detroit Free Press reported.
Jalen Duren Works on Perimeter Shooting and Skills
After signing a five-year, $200 million contract last week, Duren spent his first practice session back working on his perimeter shot alongside teammates Paul Reed and Ugonna Onyenso. While Duren has yet to record a made 3-pointer in his NBA career, going 0-for-6, his recent practice form appeared tight. Bickerstaff noted that the center’s overall game has progressed since last season.
"He appears to be faster, more explosive. His face-up game has improved. His work around the basket has improved as well," Bickerstaff said. "Defensively, being in his right spots, being switchable and being able to guard smaller guys so far."
Pistons Struggle Without Duren in Preseason Opener
Duren sat out the Pistons’ 109-107 preseason-opening win against the Phoenix Suns on Monday, Oct. 5, while continuing his re-acclimation process. During that contest, the team struggled in his absence, trailing 68-50 at halftime while shooting 37.2% from the field. The Suns also dominated the offensive glass during the first two quarters. Bickerstaff indicated that the team is currently implementing new offensive concepts, which often take longer to synchronize than defensive schemes during the preseason.
Goals for the Upcoming Season
Duren, who averaged 19.5 points and 10.5 rebounds on 65% shooting last year, is looking to expand his impact in his fifth NBA season. During a press conference on Sunday, he emphasized a desire to become more versatile. "I would say to create my own shot, I would say defending at a high level – pick-and-roll – defending the rim at a high level," Duren said. He added that his primary focus remains on being a flexible tool for his coaches, avoiding being restricted to a single role.
Get Answers About Jalen Duren Status and Stats
When is Jalen Duren expected to make his preseason debut?
While the team is proceeding with caution regarding his physical readiness, the current plan is for Duren to appear in a preseason game, with a potential return as early as Saturday, Oct. 10, against the Washington Wizards.
How did Duren perform statistically last season?
Duren averaged 19.5 points and 10.5 rebounds per game while shooting 65% from the floor. He was one of only six NBA players to average at least 10 points on 65% shooting, and the only one among that group to average more than 15 points per game.
Why was Duren absent from the team’s practice facility for most of the offseason?
Duren’s absence was tied to an offseason-long contract standoff, which concluded last Thursday night when he signed a five-year, $200 million deal.