Jalen Duren-Pistons standoff may no longer be only about money

The Pistons have offered Jalen Duren $200 million. He still hasn’t said yes.

At some point, that makes it fair to wonder whether Detroit can solve this problem simply by adding more money.

Anthony Pedone of Pistons on SI argues that the relationship may have deteriorated beyond the normal discomfort of restricted free agency. Duren reportedly has felt disrespected since Detroit offered him roughly $20 million annually last year on what was presented as a take-it-or-leave-it proposal. The tension only grew from there. 

Duren is coming off an All-Star and All-NBA season, yet the Pistons reportedly wanted him to lose weight following their playoff loss to the Cavaliers. Their latest offer includes a weight clause that could require monthly weigh-ins.

The five-year, $200 million proposal is an enormous commitment. Rejecting it also leaves Duren with an enormous decision.

He can accept his $9.6 million qualifying offer by Oct. 1, play one more season in Detroit and become an unrestricted free agent next summer. He would gain control of his future while risking nearly $200 million in guaranteed money.

That would be the clearest sign yet that this stopped being a routine contract negotiation somewhere along the way.