Pistons' Jalen Duren sent Detroit ultimate warning as $5M contract dispute continues amid stalemate image
The Detroit Pistons have been trying to figure things out with their center, Jalen Duren, who is a restricted free agent. That is crucial because he can’t just go join another team since he is a restricted free agent.
Duren had a breakout season last year for the Pistons, but he disappeared when it was playoff time. As it stands, the two sides have a $5 million contract dispute.
“The Pistons offered Jalen Duren a five-year contract averaging around $35 million annually, per ESPN. Duren’s camp continues to believe he is worth more than $40 million per year.. If Duren continues to be unsatisfied with Detroit, he could take the qualifying offer instead,” NBA reporter Evan Sidery wrote.
For Detroit, all they have to do is give the man a max contract; they just are not willing to make that commitment. It has started to really frustrate Duren’s side, which could lead to the qualifying offer. That would likely mark the end of his future in Detroit.
“If he takes that (qualifying offer)...he really wants out, he is fed up...he doesn't want to be there. Even if that's the case I would say do not do that,” NBA reporter Chris Haynes said.
With talks still not coming anywhere close to terms, Duren’s team just gave the Pistons an ultimatum. Either Detroit is going to pay him, or he will take the qualifying offer.
“The Pistons have no plans to increase their extension offer to Jalen Duren before training camp begins in a few weeks. Detroit believes they’ve offered Duren a fair long-term deal for both sides. Duren’s camp is threatening the qualifying offer soon, if a max isn’t presented,” Sidery posted.
It looks like it is all on the table for the Pistons to decide. If they decide on the qualifying offer, Duren will have an unrestricted free-agent year, which will allow him to go anywhere of his choice. The qualifying offer is a one-year deal that would allow Duren to become an unrestricted free agent next summer.
Detroit has used Duren’s inability to go anywhere else against him so far this summer, but now he has left them with a big choice. Now, it is pay him or let him walk next summer. The choice is in the Pistons organization’s hands.
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