Before the Detroit Pistons played the Orlando Magic in Florida for Game 4, the NBA legend Carmelo Anthony publicly challenged the Pistons center, Jalen Duren.
Amid a tough series for the center so far, Anthony made it clear that Game 4 was a major moment for Duren. On the road, Duren could help the Pistons turn things around and even the series 2-2.
GettyBALTIMORE, MARYLAND – SEPTEMBER 22: Carmelo Anthony looks on before the game between the Baltimore Ravens and the Detroit Lions at M&T Bank Stadium on September 22, 2025 in Baltimore, Maryland. (Photo by Greg Fiume/Getty Images)
“You’re supposed to be the next great American big man,” Anthony said on the pregame show.
“You are putting on a show not just for Detroit, not just for the fans, but for Team USA. Players that you’re going up against, people that’s actually watching this performance. You have an opportunity to stamp that. Why not go out there and do it?”
Jalen Duren Fails To Answer The Call
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. 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 Patrick Smith/Getty Images)
Duren checked into Monday night’s game for 31 minutes.
The star center was efficient from the field by going 5-8, but it was a quiet night by his standards. Duren finished the game with 12 points.
Typically a double-double machine, Duren had just eight rebounds. He snatched up one steal and blocked one shot. The big man finished the game with four turnovers, which came second to Cade Cunningham, who had eight.
Once again, Duren was heavily criticized for the performance he put together on Monday night. His struggles didn’t do the struggling Pistons any favors. Detroit dropped the ball with a 94-88 loss.
Leading up to Game 4, Duren was averaging 30.7 minutes of playing time in the first three games. The big man has been averaging 9.0 points and 8.3 rebounds, while shooting 41.7% from the field.
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)
During the regular season, Duren averaged 19.5 points and 10.5 rebounds, while averaging 65.0% from the field. He simply hasn’t played anywhere near his best.
The Pistons are now trailing the Magic 3-1 in a series they were favored to win, being the first seed.
Game 5 between the Pistons and the Magic will take place on Wednesday, April 29. The game is set to tip off at 7 PM ET. It’s a win-or-go-home battle for Detroit.