Pistons' Jalen Duren injury update clears him for basketball activity

On Sunday, November 8, the Detroit Pistons announced that center Jalen Duren has been cleared to begin on-court basketball activity after a brief injury. The 22-year-old had sustained a right hamstring strain on October 23 during the team's season opener against Miami. Duren exited the game midway through the second quarter after driving to the basket and grabbing the area behind his right knee.

Following this injury, Duren missed the beginning of the Pistons' training camp, which was resolved before he signed a $200 million, five-year contract extension. Before his injury, Duren had made an impact in the preseason, playing in the final two preseason games and contributing 22 points and nine rebounds in the season opener against Boston.

The Pistons have gone 4-2 without Duren, but he has been a challenge on both ends of the court. Duren will be sidelined for at least the next eight games, which include games against the Lakers, Wizards, and Wizards in Washington DC. Paul Reed has stepped in as the primary center, with John Collins taking over as the power forward when Reed is playing.

Tolu Smith has also provided occasional support off the bench. The Pistons' next games include hosting the Lakers and Wizards, followed by road trips against the Wizards, Heat, Spurs, Pelicans, and Raptors, as well as a home game against the Hawks.