The Sacramento Kings and disgruntled big man Jalen Duren have been linked over the past few weeks. Reports now indicate an offer was made for Duren, but the Detroit Pistons have not budged.
The Sacramento Kings are positioned to potentially go big-game hunting next offseason, as the team will shed significant cap space.
But, the veteran pair of Zach LaVine and Domantas Sabonis are still making nearly $100 million combined this upcoming season.
With the Kings continuing to try to rebuild, and acquiring some significant young talent, both of these players have been floated as potential trade targets.
On Thursday, ClutchPoints’ Brett Siegel confirmed that the Kings have been shopping Sabonis, noting a turned down trade offer to the Detroit Pistons.
The Pistons and All-NBA Third Team center Jalen Duren have been in contract stalls for sometime now, with the 22-year old big man seeking $40 million annually.
Detroit has been unwilling to meet this number, which has made it more likely that Duren plays out the year on a qualifying offer and seeks the big contract next offseason.
The Kings have been linked to Duren, and reportedly offered a Sabonis-Duren centered sign-and-trade, but the Pistons declined.
For Sabonis, he would have the opportunity to compete on a team who finished No. 1 in the Eastern Conference, while Duren could get his bag and grow alongside Darius Acuff Jr.
On Saturday, The Athletic's Sam Amick reported that the All-NBA third team big man could be drawn to Sacramento by Acuff, noting the potential fit.
"Duren is known to be eyeing the Sacramento Kings as a desirable destination where he could thrive alongside Darius Acuff Jr. as an established building block," Amick said.
Acuff, who has been hailed as the Kings' lead guard of the future, would provide a similar level of playmaking ability as Duren's current point guard Cade Cunningham.
Duren excels in the pick-and-roll game, finishing high at the rim on alley-oops and pocket passes.
Last season, Duren averaged 19.5 points and 10.5 rebounds per game, appearing in 70 games for the Pistons.
Availability has been a big benefit for Duren, as he has played in 61 or more games in each of his four NBA seasons.
While giving Duren a significant deal after his playoff struggles could be a risk, the upside and potential he has is massive.
The Pistons could also improve by bringing in Sabonis, who has lots of NBA experience and is a more versatile offensive big than Duren.
Early on, the Kings will likely want to see how Sabonis and second-year man Maxime Raynaud fit alongside the returning core and Acuff.
But, if Sabonis is having a good year, and improves his trade value, look for the Kings to potentially make a move.
Both Duren and Jonathan Kuminga would become instant targets next offseason for Sacramento's front office to target.
