News Article
Published
Oct 25, 2026 at 11:29 AM EDT
The Detroit Pistons have suffered an early-season setback after receiving an injury update on Jalen Duren.
The starting center left Friday's win over the Miami Heat with a right hamstring strain and will be re-evaluated in two weeks.
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Detroit confirmed the diagnosis in an official medical update:
"Pistons center Jalen Duren exited Friday night's game at Miami in the second quarter with a right hamstring strain. He will be re-evaluated in two weeks." as per Pistons PR.
Duren exited during the second quarter against Miami and did not return. He finished with four points, six rebounds, three assists, one steal and one block in just 10 minutes.
Detroit still secured a 128-111 win, but losing its starting center is a significant concern.
He had an impressive performance against Boston. He recorded 22 points and nine rebounds in Detroit's season-opening victory, showing why he remains such an important part of the team's frontcourt.
Duren averaged 19.5 points and 10.5 rebounds last season. His combination of interior scoring, rebounding and rim protection makes him difficult to replace. The injury could force Detroit to adjust its rotation just as the team looks to build on last season's progress.
Paul Reed is expected to take on a larger role during Duren's absence. Reed delivered 19 points and 11 rebounds against Miami, making him a strong candidate to fill the starting center spot. John Collins could also see minutes at center in smaller lineups.
The next two weeks will be important for Detroit. The Pistons visit Philadelphia on Sunday before facing the New York Knicks on Tuesday.
In my view, the Pistons should avoid rushing Duren back. The two-week re-evaluation window does not guarantee a return date, and protecting their young center is more important than forcing an early comeback.