After a protracted contract standoff, Jalen Duren took the floor and in 15 minutes scored 24 points, making 8 of 9 shots and all 8 free throws. The Detroit Pistons comfortably beat Minnesota 128:106, and the 22-year-old center showed not just statistics, but a readiness to close all the questions that had been piling up all summer.
A five-year contract worth about 200–250 million dollars was signed in early October, but before that Duren missed part of training and the first preseason games. Fans and experts wondered whether the protracted dispute would affect the chemistry of a team that over the previous two seasons had become one of the league's most pleasant surprises. His debut dispelled almost all the concerns.
Coach J.B. Bickerstaff noted Duren's aggression and speed on both halves of the court. The center not only scored points under the basket, but also defended actively, made steals, blocked shots and even handled the ball on offense. This is no longer just athleticism, but also an understanding of the game that was lacking in last season's playoffs.
Imagine a young boxer who, after a difficult divorce from his promoter, steps into the ring and immediately knocks out all doubts. So it is here: one game does not decide a season, but it shows that internal conflicts have not broken their motivation. For the first time in the preseason, the team started with all its key players in the lineup, and that too is an important signal.
For the Pistons, Duren's performance is not just statistics, but confirmation that the young core led by Cade Cunningham and Duren is ready for the next step. Contract questions are settled, and the focus is back on basketball. All that remains is to maintain this level in the regular season, which starts as early as 20 October.
