The Detroit Pistons found out they have one of the best guards in the league last season, as Cade Cunningham cracked the NBA All-Star game for the first time.
This year, the Pistons are able to recognize their starting center, Jalen Duren, as one of the best at his position, as he earned his first All-Star nod earlier this year.
As the regular season winds down, Duren continues to play at a high level in the midst of his career year.
Following a recent Pistons victory over the Minnesota Timberwolves, a stat was revealed, which showed that Duren is in statistical company with Denver Nuggets star Nikola Jokic.
via Real App on X: “Jalen Duren has the 2nd most games this season with 20 PTS & 10 REB on 50% FG. Only Nikola Jokic has more.”
Jalen Duren Is Having A Career-Year
During the 2024-2025 NBA season, Jalen Duren averaged 11.8 points per game while shooting nearly 70.0% from the field. He averaged a double-double for the second season in a row, with 10.3 rebounds per game.
This season, Duren has been making 64.5% of his shots, putting up 19.5 points per game. That’s by far the biggest mark of his career. He is also averaging 10.7 rebounds per game.
While Duren doesn’t play the same versatile game as Jokic, who is a triple-double machine with his passing and a stretch-five, he’s one of the most efficient bigs in the league, playing to his strengths at the position.
The Pistons Are Looking To Finish At The Top
Detroit is set for a matchup against the Sixers on Saturday night.
With a win over Philadelphia, the Pistons would lock up the No. 1 seed in the Eastern Conference.
Although the Pistons were hit with a difficult injury to Cade Cunningham, Duren’s presence has been a major boost for Detroit. They will tip off at 7 PM ET on Saturday, looking for win No. 57 over Philadelphia.
More Pistons News
Pistons Coach Gets Real on Major Cade Cunningham Question
NBA Fans React to Detroit Pistons’ Cade Cunningham Injury Update
Detroit Pistons’ Front Office Gets Crystal Clear Message From Jalen Duren
For the latest Detroit Pistons news and rumors, head over to Heavy on Pistons
Jalen Duren Stat Lands In Company With Jokic Before Sixers Game