Brief

Jalen Duren says Pistons called him ‘fourth‑best’ during $200 million deal talks

Duren expressed frustration after hearing the comment during negotiations for his new contract.

By Felo News Desk · Published Sun, 11 Oct 2026 16:29:39 GMT

All‑Star center Jalen Duren told ESPN’s Vincent Goodwill that he was upset to be called the Pistons’ “fourth‑best player” while finalising a five‑year, $200 million contract, according to Bleacher Report.

What happened

Duren, the 13th‑overall pick in the 2022 draft, signed the deal last week after a four‑year stint in which he averaged a career‑high 19.5 points, 10.5 rebounds and 2.0 assists per game. The Pistons posted a 60‑22 record, the best in the Eastern Conference, but were eliminated in the second round of the playoffs.

What was said

Vincent Goodwill of ESPN reported Duren’s frustration, noting the comment came amid talks that also addressed a weight‑clause in the contract, as covered in earlier Felo News reporting.

Key facts

• Jalen Duren signed a five‑year, $200 million contract with the Detroit Pistons. (bleacherreport.com)
• Duren said he was called the Pistons’ "fourth‑best player" during negotiations. (bleacherreport.com)
• He averaged 19.5 points, 10.5 rebounds and 2.0 assists per game in the regular season. (bleacherreport.com)

Sources

• [1] bleacherreport.com — originally reported as “Jalen Duren Reportedly Was Called '4th-Best' Pistons Player During $200M Contract Talks”