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Pistons GM aims to retain Duren, Harris

ESPN NBA •
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Pistons GM Trajan Langdon expressed confidence in securing a new contract with All-Star center Jalen Duren after his breakout season. Duren, 22, averaged nearly 20 points and 10 rebounds during his first All-Star campaign, becoming one of the biggest contributors to Detroit's 60-win season and No. 1 seed. The restricted free-to-be acquired from Charlotte in 2022 showed consistent improvement across three seasons.

Despite his regular-season success, Duren's playoff production dipped to 10.2 points and 8.5 rebounds as defenses adjusted against his rim-attacking style. The Pistons also aim to keep Tobias Harris, their 34-year-old forward who averaged over 18 points in the playoffs and provided crucial scoring alongside All-Star Cade Cunningham. Both players represent key pieces for Detroit's championship aspirations.

Langdon made clear the organization's priority is retaining both core players, emphasizing how Harris' veteran presence and Duren's development fueled their successful season. With Cleveland eliminating Detroit in Game 7 of the second round, maintaining this nucleus becomes essential for the Pistons to build on their recent success and contend for a championship next year.