When Jalen Duren speaks, people around the league listen. The Pistons big man isn’t one to throw out compliments without reason, so when he recently singled out a fellow young player, it was worth paying attention. Asked about rookies who’ve impressed him this season, Duren didn’t hesitate.
“Rookie-wise, I like Derik Queen,” he said. “I’ve been tapped in watching him the last few games - he’s been hoopin’.”
And Duren’s not wrong. Queen has been quietly building a résumé that’s tough to ignore.
The New Orleans rookie is averaging 12.8 points, 7.5 rebounds, and 4.3 assists - the only first-year player putting up those kinds of numbers across the board. In a rookie class that features top overall pick Cooper Flagg and plenty of headline-grabbers, Queen’s all-around production is carving out a lane of its own.
What sets Queen apart isn’t just the stat line - it’s how he’s getting it done. He’s not your typical rookie waiting in the corner or finishing dump-offs.
He’s initiating offense, often from the elbow or the top of the key, and showing a feel for the game that’s well beyond his years. He plays with a controlled tempo that keeps defenders guessing and teammates involved.
That blend of poise and versatility was on full display in his breakout moment - a triple-double performance against the Washington Wizards. Queen dropped 14 points, pulled down 16 boards, and dished out 12 assists, helping snap a brutal nine-game losing streak for New Orleans. It wasn’t just a big night - it was a statement.
Opponents are starting to take notice. And so are his peers.
Meanwhile, Duren himself is earning some well-deserved recognition. Following Detroit’s gritty 104-103 win over the Boston Celtics, former All-Star big man DeMarcus Cousins had high praise for the 20-year-old center on FanDuel’s Run It Back.
“This kid has a lot of potential,” Cousins said. “He’s not a finished product, but his future is really bright.”
It’s not just talk - Duren backed it up on the court that night. He posted 18 points and nine rebounds while anchoring a Pistons defense that’s quietly become one of the league’s most physical and effective units. Detroit’s resurgence this season has been fueled by size, toughness, and a renewed defensive identity - and Duren has been at the heart of it.
His game continues to evolve. The touch around the rim is improving, the defensive instincts are sharper, and the motor never stops running. If he keeps trending upward like this, All-Star conversations won’t be far off.
So while Duren’s giving props to Queen - and rightfully so - it’s clear both young bigs are on the rise. One is making noise in New Orleans with a rare blend of skill and vision, the other is helping reshape the culture in Detroit with muscle, hustle, and a growing bag.
The future at the five is in good hands.