The opening day of NBA free agency brought big changes for the Los Angeles Lakers, as LeBron James announced his departure after an eight-year stint and Luke Kennard signed with the Phoenix Suns.
Nonetheless, the Lakers have remained active in free agency and are targeting several players to build around Luka Dončić.
Lakers Intensify Effort to Land Jalen Duren from the Detroit Pistons
According to NBA insider Shams Charania, Lakers president Rob Pelinka has been meeting with several free agents, including Jalen Duren of the Detroit Pistons.
Charania highlighted that Los Angeles is focused on adding size, perimeter shooting, and backcourt depth as it looks to strengthen the roster.
The Athletic also reported that Duren’s discussions with the Lakers are gaining momentum.
“Jalen Duren had a productive meeting with the Lakers on Tuesday and is scheduled to meet with them again on Wednesday morning, league sources told The Athletic,” the report states.
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“Duren was told by the Lakers in the meeting that they view him as a maximum-salary level player, according to the sources, who spoke on condition of anonymity to describe ongoing deliberations.”
“The 22-year-old received a similar message of strong interest from the Sacramento Kings, who also met with Duren on Tuesday and indicated that they will continue to explore sign-and-trade scenarios to land him.”
After James’ decision on Tuesday, the Lakers have huge salary-cap flexibility.
If they can bring in Duren, he would be an excellent fit alongside Luka Dončić and Austin Reaves.
Duren is coming off the best regular season of his career, averaging 19.5 points and 10.5 rebounds while shooting 65% from the field. His breakout production earned him his first NBA All-Star selection as an Eastern Conference reserve, along with All-NBA Third Team honors.
Detroit’s postseason ended with a hard-fought second-round loss to the Cleveland Cavaliers, and Duren struggled offensively, averaging just 10.2 points and 2.1 assists.
However, at only 22 years old, one disappointing playoff series is unlikely to overshadow his long-term potential.
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Duren’s combination of efficient scoring, rebounding, and the obvious room for further development makes him a big target for the Lakers.
However, acquiring Duren will be challenging because Detroit has the right to match any offer sheet he signs. The franchise has firmly indicated they intend to keep him despite earlier contract differences.
ESPN’s Marc J. Spears reported that the Pistons have already tabled their strongest possible offer to Duren. The front office is unwilling to entertain sign-and-trade scenarios and remains prepared to match any outside offer.
