Pistons' Cade Cunningham Expects Jalen Duren to Be NBA's Best Big Man

All-Star Cade Cunningham believes Jalen Duren is on track to become one of the league's top centers.

Feb. 7, 2026 at 10:15am

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Detroit Pistons All-Star Cade Cunningham praised his teammate Jalen Duren, saying the 22-year-old center is on pace to become the best big man in the NBA. Duren, who was named an All-Star for the first time this season, has been a key part of the Pistons' success, averaging 17.7 points, 10.5 rebounds, and 0.9 steals per game.

Why it matters

Duren's rapid development is a promising sign for the Pistons, who have emerged as one of the top teams in the Eastern Conference this season. Cunningham's high praise for his young teammate underscores Duren's immense potential and the Pistons' bright future.

The details

In his fourth NBA season, Jalen Duren has blossomed into an All-Star caliber player, helping the Pistons to a 38-13 record, second-best in the Eastern Conference. Duren's impressive stat line and defensive impact have earned him his first All-Star selection, and he will also compete in the dunk contest during All-Star weekend.

  • Duren was named an NBA All-Star for the first time this season.
  • Duren will participate in the dunk contest during the 2026 NBA All-Star weekend.

The players

Cade Cunningham

An All-Star guard for the Detroit Pistons who has praised his teammate Jalen Duren's potential to become one of the best big men in the NBA.

Jalen Duren

A 22-year-old center for the Detroit Pistons who was named an NBA All-Star for the first time this season and is averaging 17.7 points, 10.5 rebounds, and 0.9 steals per game.

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What they’re saying

“He's gonna be the best bigs in this league one day. He's on his way there.”

— Cade Cunningham, All-Star guard, Detroit Pistons (The Crossover)

What’s next

Duren will have the opportunity to showcase his skills in the dunk contest during the 2026 NBA All-Star weekend.

The takeaway

Jalen Duren's rapid development into an All-Star-caliber player at just 22 years old is a testament to his talent and the Pistons' ability to identify and develop young stars. Cade Cunningham's high praise for his teammate underscores Duren's immense potential and the Pistons' bright future as one of the top teams in the Eastern Conference.