Pistons Center Jalen Duren Out for at Least Two Weeks

Jalen Duren will sit out for a minimum of two weeks after sustaining a right hamstring strain, according to a statement from the Detroit Pistons on Sunday. The 22-year-old center was removed from the lineup following a 128-111 victory over the Miami Heat on Friday.

Duren exited the game in the second quarter after feeling pain in his right leg while defending Miami forward Giannis Antetokounmpo. He played 10 minutes before leaving the floor, recording four points, six rebounds and three assists in the loss.

The injury halts Duren's momentum following a standout 2025-26 season. He averaged 19.5 points and 10.5 rebounds per game last year, which earned him his first NBA All-Star selection and a spot on the All-NBA Third Team. In the Pistons' first two games of the 2026-27 season, he has averaged 13 points and 7.5 rebounds.

Detroit must rely on other frontcourt players to fill the void during Duren's absence. Paul Reed is positioned to take on a larger role at center, while John Collins and Tolu Smith may also receive increased playing time. The team will reassess Duren's physical status after the two-week period to determine his return date.

The setback arrives shortly after Duren signed a five-year, $200 million contract extension with the Pistons in October. The deal was finalized after a lengthy negotiation process during the offseason. The Pistons will continue to monitor his recovery as they begin the new season.