Jalen Duren is elevating his profile this season, demonstrating an undeniable impact on the court that has not gone unnoticed. The young center is currently averaging an impressive double-double with 17.8 points and 10.7 rebounds per game, signaling his importance to the Detroit Pistons’ successes this season. His performance has captured the attention of fans and former NBA players alike.
Notably, former NBA stars Chandler Parsons and DeMarcus Cousins spoke on the “Run It Back” show about Duren’s potential to be a starting center for Team USA in the upcoming 2028 Olympics in Los Angeles. Parsons praised Duren as a “junkyard dog” who excels at his role, while Cousins highlighted his ability to create offense and develop as a player, indicating a bright future ahead.
Duren’s physicality has made him a standout in the league, ranking sixth in rebounds per game, and he continues to impress with his scoring capabilities. Earlier this season, he achieved a career-high of 33 points against the Dallas Mavericks, solidifying his role as a key contributor alongside teammate Cade Cunningham. Cunningham acknowledged Duren’s prowess, stating, “He makes my job easy,” especially when it comes to offensive support.
As the season progresses, Duren has established himself as a strong candidate for the All-Star team, leading the Pistons with 20 double-doubles. Given that the team is currently atop the Eastern Conference standings, Duren’s contributions on the court have made it challenging to overlook his All-Star potential. With the announcement of the 75th All-Star Game reserves set for February 1, excitement builds around whether Duren will earn his first selection. His performances indicate he has both the skill set and tenacity that could make him a valuable asset to the league’s showcase.