Pistons Began Training Camp Without Jalen Duren
The Detroit Pistons have opened their training camp while failing to reach a long-term contract extension with center Jalen Duren.
Updated on Sept. 28, 2026 in Basketball
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The Detroit Pistons kicked off their training camp on September 28, 2026, without Jalen Duren on the active roster. The team and the center were unable to finalize a long-term contract agreement, leaving his status uncertain as the season approaches.
Why it matters
Duren's absence highlights a major roster gap for a team that recently won the Central Division title in 2026. The franchise is currently focused on optimizing floor spacing around star player Cade Cunningham following recent roster adjustments.
Jalen Duren, the 13th overall pick in the 2022 NBA draft, averaged 20 points and 10.5 rebounds per game last season. The 6-foot-10 center has yet to secure a new long-term deal with the Detroit franchise.
The players
Jalen Duren
He is a professional basketball center who was selected 13th overall in the 2022 NBA draft.
Cade Cunningham
He is a star player for the Detroit Pistons who is under contract through the 2029-30 season.
Ausar Thompson
He is a player for the Detroit Pistons who recently signed a five-year, $155 million contract.
John Collins
He is a forward who signed a three-year, $51 million contract with the Detroit Pistons.
Tobias Harris
He is a veteran basketball player who left the Detroit Pistons to join the San Antonio Spurs.
The details
Detroit is navigating a busy offseason, having recently signed Ausar Thompson to a $155 million contract and John Collins to a $51 million deal. Meanwhile, veteran Tobias Harris has departed to join the San Antonio Spurs.
Timeline
Training camp began in Detroit on September 28, 2026.
The deadline for Duren to sign his one-year qualifying offer is this Thursday.
The Pistons last won the Central Division in 2008.
Jalen Duren was selected in the NBA draft in 2022.
The Pistons played a critical Game 7 in the playoffs on May 17, 2026.
Roadmap
The Pistons are attempting to build on the momentum of their 2026 Central Division title win. The team's recent spending on Ausar Thompson and John Collins signals an aggressive effort to remain competitive among top-tier franchises.
Duren's absence impacts the team's starting rotation and defensive presence in the paint for upcoming games. His potential contract status directly affects the team's available salary cap and long-term roster construction.
The takeaway
The Pistons face a critical decision as they balance high-value signings with the need to retain their core young talent. Fans should monitor the upcoming deadline to see how the team stabilizes its interior presence for the season.
What happens next
Jalen Duren faces a deadline this Thursday to decide whether to sign a one-year qualifying offer with the Detroit Pistons.
Further reading
For more updates on the team's roster, visit Basketball.
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