The Los Angeles Lakers' pursuit of center Jalen Duren appears to be nearing an end as the Detroit Pistons are reportedly set to offer him a maximum contract, according to ESPN NBA writer Marc J. Spears. The Pistons, who hold Duren's restricted free agency rights, are reportedly uninterested in sign-and-trade scenarios and plan to match any offer sheet he receives.
Duren, an All-Star last season, averaged 19.5 points, 8.5 rebounds, and 1.2 blocks per game, helping the Pistons secure the top seed in the Eastern Conference and end an 18-year playoff drought. His performance last season made him a prime target for the Lakers, who are looking to upgrade their center position. With DeAndre Ayton and Jaxson Hayes currently on the roster, the Lakers had identified Duren as a key target.
Prior to this development, the Lakers were reportedly scheduled to meet with Duren on Tuesday to discuss a potential sign-and-trade. Reports also indicated the Sacramento Kings were interested in Duren and were considering offering Domantas Sabonis in a trade. The Lakers have also reportedly shown interest in acquiring Walker Kessler from the Utah Jazz as an alternative.
The center market in free agency is considered thin this offseason. DeAndre Ayton had been viewed as a top option before opting into his $8.1 million contract with the Portland Trail Blazers on Monday.