The Detroit Pistons officially cleared center Jalen Duren to begin on-court basketball activity on Sunday, Nov. 8, marking a significant milestone in his recovery from a right hamstring strain. The 22-year-old star exited the second quarter of the season’s second game against the Miami Heat on Oct. 23 after driving to the basket and clutching the area behind his right knee. While the Pistons have maintained a 4-2 record in his absence, the team has visibly missed his defensive presence and rim-protection capabilities on both ends of the floor.
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Duren’s return to the court is imminent but cautious, as medical staff will re-evaluate his progress in two weeks. This timeline suggests he will miss at least the next eight games, including the upcoming Sunday matchup against the Los Angeles Lakers. During his absence, Paul Reed has anchored the starting lineup at center, with John Collins shifting from power forward to the five position when Reed rests, while Tolu Smith has provided rotational depth off the bench.
The injury occurred just after Duren signed a lucrative five-year, $200 million contract extension that settled a drawn-out negotiation before training camp. His early-season impact was undeniable, highlighted by a dominant 22-point, nine-rebound performance in the season-opening comeback victory over the Boston Celtics. As the Pistons prepare to host the Lakers, the organization remains focused on a gradual return protocol to ensure Duren is fully healthy before rejoining the rotation.
Source: Yahoo Sports
