Jalen Duren’s All-Star Case Is Real - and His Teammates Know It
The Detroit Pistons haven’t had a ton to celebrate this season, but one thing they can count on night in and night out is the steady, explosive rise of Jalen Duren. The 22-year-old center has gone from promising young big to legitimate All-Star candidate in just his fourth NBA season, and after Tuesday night’s narrow 109-107 win over the Denver Nuggets, the campaign to get him to Indianapolis picked up even more steam.
Duren didn’t have his flashiest stat line against the defending champs - 14 points, eight rebounds - but his presence was still felt. He did most of his damage in the first half, helping the Pistons build momentum early before they had to lean on others down the stretch. But it was what happened after the game that really spoke volumes.
Ausar Thompson, who had a strong night himself with 14 points on 5-for-7 shooting, plus five steals, four boards and a block, didn’t hesitate when asked about Duren’s All-Star credentials.
“I see an All-Star,” Thompson said with a grin. “I see All-Star, All-NBA. I see a great guy, great player.”
That’s not just teammate talk. Thompson’s seen up close what Duren brings to this Pistons squad - and to the league.
Offensively, Duren has taken a big leap this season, averaging just under 18 points per game. He’s become one of the league’s most dynamic lob threats, especially working in tandem with Cade Cunningham.
That two-man game has produced a steady stream of highlights, with Duren peeling off screens and rising above the rim like it’s second nature.
“He’s dunking on dudes, bringing excitement, grabbing rebounds, locking in on defense, scoring - and then dunking on dudes again,” Thompson joked. “He’s got to have the most bodies in the league this year.”
It’s not just hyperbole. Duren’s athleticism and timing make him a nightmare to defend around the rim, and he’s turned himself into a walking poster opportunity.
But it’s not just the offense - on the other end, he’s anchored the Pistons’ defense, especially when paired with Thompson. Together, they’ve become one of the most disruptive pick-and-roll defending duos in the league, using their length, speed, and instincts to wall off driving lanes and force tough decisions.
And it’s not just his teammates who are buying in. Former NBA All-Star DeMarcus Cousins recently said he thinks Duren is a “lock” for this year’s All-Star team. That’s high praise coming from a big man who knows what it takes to make it at that level.
There’s also a bit of serendipity working in Duren’s favor. Pistons head coach J.B.
Bickerstaff will be coaching one of the All-Star squads this year, which could help Duren’s case if it comes down to a coach’s selection. And with Cade Cunningham already locked in as a starter, the Pistons could very well send two representatives to Indianapolis - a welcome sign for a franchise looking to build something sustainable.
Tuesday’s win over Denver was another step forward for Detroit, and while Duren’s second half was quieter, his body of work this season speaks for itself. He’s been a consistent second scoring option, a defensive anchor, and a highlight machine all wrapped into one.
The numbers are there. The impact is there.
And now, the recognition is starting to catch up.
If the All-Star Game is about showcasing the league’s rising stars and its most exciting talents, then Jalen Duren absolutely belongs in that conversation.