Jalen Duren qualifying offer could force Pistons to consider trade

The Pistons should trade Jalen Duren. Or at least begin seriously considering it if he signs his $9.6 million qualifying offer.

That is the argument made by Blake Silverman of NBA on SI, who notes that Detroit could otherwise watch its 22-year-old All-Star center become an unrestricted free agent and leave for nothing next summer.

The Pistons have reportedly offered Duren about $190 million over five years. His camp is seeking at least $200 million.

If Duren accepts the qualifying offer, he would receive no-trade protection for the season. Silverman suggests Detroit could offer him a larger one-year contract in exchange for removing that protection, then explore the market.

The Kings have shown strong interest in Duren, while the Clippers have also been mentioned as a possible future destination. Domantas Sabonis has previously surfaced as a potential return from Sacramento.

There are reasons for Detroit to hesitate on a massive contract. Duren does not stretch the floor, remains an inconsistent defender and saw his production decline during the playoffs. The Pistons also have an expensive extension coming for Ausar Thompson.

Still, trading a 22-year-old All-NBA center because of a $10 million gap over five years feels like using a sledgehammer to settle a disagreement worth $2 million annually.

Duren and Cade Cunningham have already developed into an All-Star combination. Replacing Duren with a cheaper center would create financial flexibility, but it would also create the need to replace Duren. That part tends to get left out of these exercises.

If Duren signs the qualifying offer, the Pistons will have to protect themselves and consider every option.

Until then, the simplest solution remains the best one. Namely, stop staring at the gap and close it.