Pistons Finalize Duren Extension; Pacers Adjust Frontcourt

Detroit announced Jalen Duren's five-year, $200MM contract on Saturday after it was signed Friday. Duren averaged 19.5 points, 10.5 rebounds, and 2.0 assists last season while helping the Pistons win 60 games and earning All-Star and third-team All-NBA honors. The notes also cover Kelly Oubre Jr.'s fit with Indiana's fast-paced system and the Pacers' new center rotation led by Ivica Zubac.

Detroit finalized Jalen Duren’s five-year, $200MM deal, signed Friday and announced Saturday. The 22? Wait age? Not given. Don't invent. He posted 19.5 points, 10.5 rebounds, 2.0 assists, shot 65.0% from field and 74.7% at line in 70 games (28.2 minutes). Detroit won an East-best 60 games, and Duren earned first All-Star nod plus third-team All-NBA. Team executive Trajan Langdon called him a core piece and cited his growth.

Indiana added Kelly Oubre Jr. on a two-year, $16MM pact; he said the fast, 0.5-second decision system suits him and family life appealed. The Pacers now start Ivica Zubac, with Jay Huff and Larry Nance Jr. offering different bench looks; Rick Carlisle noted bigger lineups are possible. Chicago’s Jalen Smith reported full health after a calf injury cut short a season in which he averaged 10.2 points and 6.7 rebounds in 20.7 minutes.

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