Although the Detroit Pistons have been bad all throughout this season, there are still some elements to the team worth looking into. This is proven by center Jalen Duren’s leap and how he has accomplished a record only seen once in the NBA.
During his first year in the league, Duren averaged 9.1 points, 8.9 rebounds, and 1.1 assists throughout 67 games. He also shot an efficient 64 percent from the field while putting an abysmal 61 percent rating from the free throw line.
This season, though, Duren has taken a noticeable leap during his sophomore campaign in the NBA. In the 50 games he played, 49 of which as the Pistons’ starting center, the rising star has posted averages of 14.0 points, 11.9 rebounds, and 2.6 assists, while maintaining his efficiency from the field and improving his free throws to 77 percent.
Without a doubt, Duren’s leap this season is one of the few shining spots for an underperforming Detroit team that had the longest losing streak in NBA history. But if the center’s improvement is any indication, Motor City might have found a solid piece for the future of its franchise.
Detroit Pistons Star Jalen Duren Puts Up Insane Record Only Seen Once In NBA History
Duren’s leap is very noticeable in his past two games for the Pistons. As seen in a tweet posted by NBA History, it seems that the big man has accomplished a record only seen once in the league.
“Jalen Duren totaled the second game of his career tonight with 20+ PTS, 20+ REB, and 5+ AST, joining John Drew as the only players in NBA history with multiple such games for a player 20 years of age or younger,” NBA History posted.
With this record, Duren has established himself as one of Detroit’s best young pieces to build on. Add his leap this season, and it’s safe to say his place in the rotation is solid.
As it stands, the Pistons don’t have too long now before the regular season ends. Hopefully, the team can improve next season so more people can see how good the Detroit star actually is.
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