Pistons just got a reminder of why they need Jalen Duren with tougher tests ahead

Aaron Kellerstrass writes that a recent loss to the Philadelphia 76ers exposed the Detroit Pistons' urgent need for injured center Jalen Duren. With Joel Embiid controlling the glass and Philadelphia securing nine offensive rebounds, Detroit was out-rebounded by seven boards overall despite Ausar Thompson grabbing 17 rebounds. Kellerstrass argues that Duren's absence leaves the Pistons vulnerable against elite frontcourts.

The Pistons face an increasingly challenging slate of opposing centers, including Walker Kessler, Anthony Davis, and Victor Wembanyama. With Duren scheduled for a re-evaluation of his hamstring injury in a few days, the writer emphasizes that Detroit needs him back to handle elite interior matchups and secure rebounds.