Pistons Announce Jalen Duren News After Leaving Heat Game

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Gavin Groe | Last updated Jan 1, 2026 9:00 PM ET

The Detroit Pistons have continued to emerge as a serious contender in the Eastern Conference, showcasing the talent and depth needed to make a deep run in the NBA playoffs.

Entering Thursday’s matchup against the Miami Heat, Detroit held a 25–8 record, comfortably sitting atop the conference standings and proving that their strong start is no fluke.

A major reason for the organization’s success has been the play of center Jalen Duren. Now in his fourth NBA season, the 22-year-old has taken a massive leap forward, establishing himself as one of the premier young big men in the league.

Duren has dominated the paint with elite rebounding, strong rim protection and efficient finishing around the basket.

Through his first 30 games, he has averaged 18.1 points, 10.8 rebounds and 0.9 blocks while shooting an impressive 63.8% from the field and 72.4% from the free-throw line. His ability to control the interior has given Detroit a reliable presence on both ends of the floor.

Jalen Duren of the Detroit Pistons reacts to a dunk in the Nike KD 17 X Metro Boomin ‘Alchemist’ late in double overtime while playing the Miami Heat in the first round of the Emirates NBA Cup at Little Caesars ArenaGregory Shamus/Getty Images

Against Miami on Thursday, Duren once again looked sharp early. In just 18 minutes of action, he collected 12 points and five rebounds, setting the tone with his physicality inside.

Unfortunately, momentum shifted late in the first half when he headed to the locker room with an apparent injury. Duren attempted to play through the discomfort in the second half but was visibly limited, ultimately being removed early in the third quarter.

Moments later, the Pistons announced that Duren would not return due to a right ankle sprain (h/t Omari Sankofa II of Detroit Free Press).

Pistons announce Duren won't return with a right ankle sprain. Tough loss
— Omari Sankofa II (@omarisankofa) January 2, 2026

The news delivered a significant blow to Detroit’s rotation, especially coming on the heels of another injury earlier in the week.

Power forward Tobias Harris is still sidelined after suffering a left hip strain on Tuesday against the Los Angeles Lakers, leaving the Pistons suddenly without two of their starting frontcourt players.

Duren’s presence has been vital to Detroit’s rise. His interior dominance perfectly complements point guard Cade Cunningham’s offensive creativity and forward Ausar Thompson’s defensive versatility.

Losing him for any extended stretch would test the Pistons’ depth and resilience, but his breakout season has already underscored just how central he is to their identity as a contender.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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