Jalen Duren Expected To Miss Pistons Media Day

As Duren is not technically on the Pistons’ roster at the moment, he was not scheduled to take part in media responsibilities with the team, but he had been considering a show of face to demonstrate camaraderie with the roster, according to Amick and Patterson’s sources. This about-face is yet another indication of the tension between the two sides of the negotiations.

The widely reported weight clause in the latest offer has apparently rubbed Duren the wrong way. As of Sunday, neither side has indicated being willing to budge.

In addition to concerns about Duren’s weight and playoff struggles, the luxury tax is a concern for the team, which has Cade Cunningham already on a rookie-scale max contract in addition to the recently-extended Ausar Thompson.

Detroit could extend Duren’s qualifying offer deadline, Amick and Patterson note, though there have been no signs that they’re considering doing so. The All-NBA big man has until Thursday to make his decision. If Duren misses media day, there’s a good chance he also misses the beginning of training camp, which starts on Tuesday.

The Kings and Bucks are reportedly interested in Duren’s services, Amick and Patterson reaffirm, but the Pistons remain steadfast that they have no interest in sign-and-trade scenarios.