Detroit Pistons big man Jalen Duren, who will be a restricted free agent after the season, has faced criticism for his performances in the playoff series against the Orlando Magic.
Through the first three games, he’s averaging 9.0 points, 8.3 rebounds, 2.0 assists, 2.0 blocks, and 2.7 turnovers as the Detroit Pistons trail 2-1 heading into Game 4.
He has struggled in the matchup against Wendell Carter Jr. and was even taken out of the rotation for a stretch in the second half of Game 3.
Despite the tough stretch, the Pistons continue to back Duren and believe he will turn things around. Star guard Cade Cunningham emphasized the team’s confidence in him.
“These last three games haven’t went the way he wants, or we might want for him,” Cunningham said, per Hunter Patterson of The Athletic.
“But I, and the whole team, have no doubt that he’s going to figure it out. He knows he’s going to figure it out. So I’m excited for next game for him to plant his foot into this series.”
Teammate Ausar Thompson echoed that sentiment, stressing the importance of staying supportive and helping Duren regain confidence.
“Just be there for him, you know?” Thompson said. “Encourage him, feed him the ball and give him some space to work. I just want him to keep being aggressive, that’s it. We’re good, we’re not worried about him.”
Pistons Notes: Duren, Cunningham, Game 4, Magic Johnson, Huerter https://t.co/YCXugvytMF
— Hoops Rumors (@HoopsRumors) April 27, 2026
