Detroit Pistons’ young stars Jaden Ivey and Jalen Duren have not secured rookie scale contract extensions before the recent deadline. This decision places both players on a path toward restricted free agency in 2026.
Details on Contract Status
According to sources familiar with the Detroit Pistons’ operations, neither Ivey nor Duren finalized their extensions by the deadline of 6 p.m. on Monday. The team has yet to provide an official statement regarding their contract situations.
Impact of Restricted Free Agency
If the Pistons choose to issue qualifying offers, both players will be eligible for restricted free agency in 2026. These offers would allow Detroit to match any external proposals from other teams. If no qualifying offer is extended, Ivey and Duren could enter the free agency market unrestricted.
Player Performance Analysis
Jaden Ivey, the fifth overall pick in the 2022 NBA Draft, demonstrated potential during the 2024-25 season. He averaged 17.6 points per game with impressive shooting percentages—46% overall and 40.9% from beyond the arc. However, an injury-limited season saw him participate in only 30 games, complicating extension discussions.
- Age: 23
- Injuries: Suffered a broken left fibula and underwent knee surgery
Jalen Duren, drafted 13th overall, also showed promise this past season. He achieved averages of 11.8 points, 10.3 rebounds, 2.7 assists, and 1.1 blocks over 78 games. Duren’s evolving skill set suggests considerable upside moving forward.
- Age: 21
- Improvement: Enhanced performance in playoffs
Financial Implications
With the potential for lucrative contracts in the upcoming summer, Duren’s representatives are reportedly pushing for deals exceeding $30 million annually. This would place him among the top earners in his position.
Organizational Support
Trajan Langdon, the Pistons’ president of basketball operations, has expressed confidence in both players. He acknowledged their importance to the team’s success for the 2025-26 season but did not elaborate on the contract discussions during the team’s media day on September 29.
- Statements from Langdon: Excited about player contributions this year
- Organizational Perspective: Valued assets within the team
Upcoming Season Outlook
The Pistons are set to kick off their 2025-26 regular season with a matchup against the Chicago Bulls. This game will take place on Wednesday at 8 p.m., followed by contests against the Houston Rockets and Boston Celtics.
Comparative Contracts within the 2022 Draft Class
Notably, several players from the 2022 NBA Draft have secured substantial contract extensions:
| Player | Team | Contract | Draft Position |
|---|---|---|---|
| Paolo Banchero | Orlando Magic | 5 years, $239 million | No. 1 |
| Chet Holmgren | Oklahoma City Thunder | 5 years, $240 million | No. 2 |
| Jabari Smith Jr. | Houston Rockets | 5 years, $122 million | No. 3 |
| Keegan Murray | Sacramento Kings | 5 years, $140 million | No. 4 |
As Ivey and Duren navigate their futures, their performance and status within the team will be crucial in the coming months.
