Jalen Duren is set to meet with the Sacramento Kings when free agency officially opens on Tuesday at 6 p.m. ET. Chris Haynes reported that Duren, a restricted free agent, will discuss a potential deal with the Kings.
What's at Stake for Jalen Duren?
The Pistons can offer Duren a five-year, $287 million extension, which is 30% of the cap. If Duren signs an offer sheet elsewhere, the Pistons can match any offer, giving them leverage in negotiations.
The Lakers are also in pursuit of Duren, with a call scheduled with him when free agency opens, according to The Athletic's Sam Amick. Duren is coming off the best season of his career, averaging 19.5 points, 10.5 rebounds, and 2.0 assists per game.
Why the Pistons Are Favorites to Retain Jalen Duren
The Pistons have the right to match any offer, and with few teams having cap space this summer, most deals would have to be a sign-and-trade. Duren wants to get paid, and the Pistons can offer him more money than anyone else.
Duren's lackluster showing in the playoffs, where his scoring average dropped from 19.5 points per game in the regular season to 10.2, may not affect his market value. He is part of a core that had the best record in the East, and the Pistons would need to trade for a frontcourt player if they explore a sign-and-trade.
What the Kings Can Offer Jalen Duren
The Kings being in on Duren is the latest curveball of chaos this offseason. If the Kings make a deal with Detroit, two names that make sense to get dealt are Zach LaVine and Domantas Sabonis. Sabonis would make more sense in a potential sign-and-trade scenario.
Duren is set to make $45.4 million this season and $48.6 million next. Replacing Sabonis with Duren would make the Kings younger, and adding a long-term running mate coming off an All-NBA season would make sense for a team searching for an identity.
The Pistons' ability to match any offer gives them an advantage in retaining Duren. However, the Lakers and Kings are still in the running, and free agency is set to open on Tuesday at 6 p.m. ET. Duren's future will be decided in the coming days, with the Pistons, Lakers, and Kings all vying for his services.
What Comes Next for Jalen Duren?
Duren's meeting with the Kings and call with the Lakers will be crucial in determining his future. The Pistons' ability to offer him a five-year, $287 million extension makes them favorites to retain him, but the Lakers and Kings are still in the running. As free agency opens, all eyes will be on Duren and his potential suitors.