When Draymond Green, a seasoned veteran of the Golden State Warriors, heaps praise on a player, it's worth taking note. This time, it's Detroit Pistons All-Star Jalen Duran who caught Green's attention with a stellar 23-point performance in a 115-101 victory.
Duran, now in his fourth year, has been a consistent force on the court, and Green's admiration isn't new. He had already given Duran a nod of approval before the All-Star Game, marking Jalen's first selection.
After the game, Duran shared his thoughts on Green's commendation during his postgame media session. "It means a lot, you know.
Draymond’s a champion, a legend, a Hall of Famer in our league, so for him to recognize my game and see the growth in it means a lot to me," Duran expressed. "I just want to keep getting better.
I think the sky is the limit. Not only for me, but for my teammates too."
“It means a lot, you know. Obviously, Draymond’s a champion, a legend, a Hall of Famer in our league, so for him to recognize my game and see the growth in it, it means a lot to me... Sky is the limit."
— ClutchPoints (@ClutchPoints) March 21, 2026
Jalen Duren on Draymond Green praising him 🙌pic.twitter.com/etBQsK6DoP
This season, Duran has been a powerhouse, averaging 19.2 points on an impressive 64.2% shooting, along with 10.5 rebounds and 0.9 steals per game. His performance has been pivotal for the Pistons, especially in clinching a playoff spot against Green's Warriors, even without star teammate Cade Cunningham.
“He uses his body now…It’s no surprise that he is going to an All-Star this year.”
— Coty M. Davis (@CotyDavis_24) January 31, 2026
Draymond Green speaks on Jalen Duren's growth over the years, especially during an All-Star caliber season. #Pistons pic.twitter.com/a5tXTOVKbg
Green has been vocal about Duran's evolution since his rookie days. "He came into the NBA with a grown man’s body," Green noted.
"Now, he knows how to use it. It’s night and day in the physicality that he plays with now compared to when he first entered the league.
He’s handling the ball more, making plays, but the biggest difference is how he uses his body now."
As the Pistons gear up to host the Lakers on Monday, Duran's growth and Green's endorsement highlight a promising trajectory for the young center and his team.