Pistons' Jalen Duren injury update clears him for basketball activity

The Detroit Pistons announced on Sunday, Nov. 8 that center Jalen Duren has been cleared to resume on-court basketball activity following a right hamstring strain that sidelined him for over two weeks. The 22-year-old sustained the injury during a game on October 23 at Miami, exiting the second quarter after grabbing the area behind his right knee.

Duren missed the start of the Pistons training camp after a protracted contract negotiation that was resolved just before the deadline, securing a five-year, $200 million deal. Before his injury, Duren had played in the final two preseason games, delivering strong performances. Despite the Pistons performing well without Duren in eight games thus far, his presence on the court is sorely missed.

He is expected to miss at least the next eight games, which include matches against the Lakers, Wizards, Heat, Spurs, Pelicans, Raptors, and Hawks. Paul Reed has taken over the center position in Duren's absence, with John Collins moving from power forward to center when Reed is on the court. Tolu Smith has also contributed off the bench in Duren's place.

The Pistons face their next opponents on Sunday, Nov. 8 against the Lakers at 6 p.m., followed by a game against the Wizards on Monday at 7 p.m., and a home game against the Wizards on Thursday at 7 p.m., starting their four-game road trip.