Jalen Duren’s All-Star Case Strengthens Amid Pistons’ Success
The Detroit Pistons are making headlines with their impressive performance this season, and center Jalen Duren is at the forefront of their All-Star aspirations. With guard Cade Cunningham already securing a starting position for the 2026 NBA All-Star Game, the Pistons hope to add Duren as a reserve when the announcements are made on February 1.
Pistons’ Strong Performance in the Eastern Conference
The Pistons currently lead the Eastern Conference, sitting more than five games ahead of their closest competitors as January draws to a close. Their position solidifies their case for having multiple representatives at the All-Star game. This marks a pivotal moment for Duren, as he aims for his first All-Star selection in what has become a breakout year.
Jalen Duren’s Impressive Stats
- Points per game: 17.9
- Shooting percentage: 63.8%
- Rebounds per game: 10.6
- Assists per game: 1.7
- Blocks per game: Nearly 1
- Steals per game: Nearly 1
At just 22 years old, Duren has transformed into one of the top centers in the league. His ability to dominate the paint, contribute defensively, and score efficiently has made him a vital component of the Pistons’ success.
Coach and Player Praise
Pistons head coach J.B. Bickerstaff complimented Duren’s impact on both ends of the court. “He’s dominated the paint, contributing not just with scoring but also with rebounding and rim protection,” Bickerstaff stated. “Anytime a team sits atop their conference, multiple players should be recognized for their contributions.”
Duren’s teammate, Cade Cunningham, echoed this sentiment, highlighting the center’s diverse skill set. “He impacts winning in ways that are significant. He’s a star on this team, and we’re dominating the league,” Cunningham said.
Historical Context and Future Prospects
Duren’s contribution is underscored by his impressive win share of 5.3, ranking him 14th in the NBA and third among all centers. The Pistons, with a 34-12 record, are only slightly behind the league-leading Oklahoma City Thunder.
Historically, at least two players from the Eastern Conference’s top team have been selected for the All-Star Game for eight of the last nine seasons. The Pistons could break their own record, as it would be the first time since 2008 that multiple players from the team would be chosen for this honor.
Upcoming All-Star Weekend
The NBA will announce All-Star reserves on February 1st at 6 p.m. ET, broadcast on NBC and Peacock. Fans eagerly await to see if Duren will join Cunningham, potentially leading the Pistons to an impressive showing at the All-Star Game.
The Pistons are on a path to achieving significant recognition this season, and the addition of Jalen Duren as an All-Star would further solidify their position as a formidable force in the league.
