The Detroit Pistons, currently leading the East Division, will be missing two of their key starters for at least the upcoming week. The team revealed that center Jalen Duren, who has been performing at an All-Star level this season, has suffered a sprained right ankle and will be reassessed in a week. Duren has been making significant progress this season, averaging 17.9 points per game on 63.3% shooting along with 10.6 rebounds.
With Duren out, Isaiah Stewart and Paul Reed are expected to fill the center role, forming a backup center duo similar to others around the league. Additionally, winger Tobias Harris is sidelined due to a sprained left hip and will be rechecked in two weeks. Harris is putting up 13.4 points per game while shooting 33.3% from beyond the arc. Sixth man Caris LeVert is also struggling with inflammation in his right knee and will miss this weekend’s game against the Cleveland Cavaliers.
This coming week will be challenging for the Pistons as they face the Cavaliers, who are on a three-game winning streak, and the New York Knicks.
Fan Take: This injury news is crucial for basketball fans because it could shift the balance of power in the competitive East Division. Watching how the Pistons adapt without key players will be a fascinating test of their depth and resilience, potentially impacting playoff positioning and team dynamics.
