As the Detroit Pistons work on getting out of the first round, all eyes have been on their star center, Jalen Duren.
The first-time All-Star is among those struggling on the Pistons, as they surprisingly trail 2-3 in the series against the Orlando Magic.
Meanwhile, Duren’s camp is preparing for a critical summer. For the first time in his NBA career, Duren is set to become a free agent. After failing to reach an extension with the Pistons before the 2025 deadline, Duren is the next homegrown in line to get a hefty payday.
Duren has made it clear that his desire is to land back in Detroit. Of course, the money will matter, though. And the Chicago Bulls could end up being a team to keep an eye on in the Duren market this offseason.
Why The Chicago Bulls Matter
GettyDETROIT, MICHIGAN – NOVEMBER 17: Jalen Duren #0 of the Detroit Pistons reacts after he dunks in the first half against the Indiana Pacers at Little Caesars Arena on November 17, 2025 in Detroit, Michigan. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Rick Osentoski/Getty Images)
Jake Fischer of The Stein Line reports that several bigs in the NBA will “attempt to generate interest from Chicago” since the Bulls have a high projection of salary cap space. Per Fischer, they could have around $65 million.
“Projecting the Bulls’ offseason intentions with certitude will naturally be easier once they’ve installed a new head of basketball operations, but Chicago’s lack of a proven center on the current roster is undeniable,” Fischer wrote.
In addition to Duren, Fischer anticipates Mark Williams and Walker Kessler to have a similar approach. The Bulls will need their Nikola Vucevic replacement after sending him to the Boston Celtics back in February.
The Pistons Are Facing A Major Gamble
GettyWASHINGTON, DC – MARCH 17: Jalen Duren #0 of the Detroit Pistons controls the ball against the Washington Wizards during the second half at Capital One Arena on March 17, 2026 in Washington, DC.
Before the playoffs, giving Duren a max salary almost seemed like a no-brainer.
In 70 games, Duren produced averages of 19.5 points, 10.5 rebounds, and 2.0 assists. He was a first-time All-Star at 22 years old.
The playoff run has distorted Duren’s value. In five games, Duren has averaged 10.2 points, 8.4 rebounds, and 1.8 blocks per game. His numbers are down compared to his first run in the postseason. It’s clear that Duren’s struggles are near the top of the Pistons’ biggest problems during the playoffs.
Duren’s rumored interest in the Bulls doesn’t exactly mean he’s looking to flee. As a restricted free agent, Duren can take any deal that he wants, and pressure the Pistons to match it or move on.
With the Bulls still rebuilding their front office, there’s no real way to gauge Chicago’s interest level in Duren or any other big at this time. But when the time comes for the Bulls to start eyeing potential bigs in free agency, it seems that Duren’s camp will want them to reach out.
Detroit Pistons Rival Will Play Role in Jalen Duren’s NBA Free Agency