Despite a relatively quiet off-season, the Detroit Pistons are still hoping to bring back star center Jalen Duren. However, according to Yahoo Sports' Chris Haynes, both sides may still be far apart on a new deal.
""Now, IT [Isiah Thomas], if he takes that offer [the qualifying offer], he really wants out. Like he is fed up, wants out, and believes himself that he doesn't want to be there."Chris Haynes, on NBA TV
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Haynes seemingly suggests that Duren may be willing to take the qualifying offer, which would be the equivalent of taking a 1-year contract. In doing so, Duren could become an unrestricted free agent after next season.
That would be disastrous for the Pistons, who would likely lose him for nothing in free agency after next season. It would also make trading him much harder, given his pending free agency.
NBA Rumors: The Pistons and Jalen Duren are still far apart on a deal
Both sides are still far apart on a new deal, and a sign-and-trade is seemingly out of the question. As a result, the thought that Duren might take the qualifying offer seems increasingly likely.
This wouldn't have happened had Duren actually played well during the NBA playoffs. In that case, he would have easily been able to convince the Pistons to give him a max contract.
Unfortunately for Duren and the Pistons, he underwhelmed in the playoffs. Now, both sides find themselves in a stalemate. Go figure.
Duren might be the first young star to take the qualifying offer
That sets the table for a fascinating scenario in which Duren could become the first young star to take his qualifying offer. If the Pistons aren't willing to pay him what he wants, then he can take the $9.6 million qualifying offer.
I would argue there is less risk on his side than the Pistons'. He might not find the max contract he seeks in free agency next summer. Then again, he probably would still command big money and be able to choose his team.
From Detroit's perspective, they can't afford to max Duren out, but they can't afford to lose him either. It's not exactly easy to find an All-NBA center.
Even if they were to go with a center by committee option, combined, they may not be as good as Duren. Perhaps the middle ground is a 3-year deal, with a player option, worth around $110.
The Pistons get him back for around the number they want him at, while Duren can become a free agent again in two years when he is just 24 years old. Barring that, however, don't be surprised if he takes the qualifying offer.
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