Pistons on standoff with Jalen Duren: 'Negotiation is negotiation'

The Detroit Pistons are on the verge of welcoming back restricted free agent Jalen Duren, who is likely to remain outside the team's facilities until he signs a contract. The 23-year-old big man has until Thursday to decide whether to accept the Pistons' five-year, $200 million offer or the one-year, $9.6 million qualifying offer.

Until he signs, Duren will not be able to participate in team activities. Pistons President of Basketball Operations Trajan Langdon emphasized that the franchise remains committed to Duren regardless of his decision, stating that the team is excited to have him back when he returns. Langdon explained that the primary issue is simply a negotiation tactic, with Duren having to prove he is willing to accept the qualifying offer if he wants more money from the Pistons.

Cade Cunningham, who recently extended his own contract with the team, expressed his brotherly support for Duren, stating that the negotiation is between the Pistons' front office and Duren's representation. While the Pistons are accepting of Duren's potential decision, the absence of the All-NBA player from the roster will be noticeable, but the team is prepared to coach without him.