Cade Cunningham can make things easier for Jalen Duren if he re-signs

Writer Jordanna Clark argues that Cade Cunningham's personal support can help ease Jalen Duren's return to the Detroit Pistons if he re-signs. Duren is facing a deadline regarding his $9.6 million qualifying offer, while Detroit has offered a fully guaranteed five-year, $200 million contract extension. Cunningham stated at media day that he has stayed in close contact with Duren to provide encouragement during his restricted free-agency negotiations.

Clark notes that both Cunningham and head coach J.B. Bickerstaff have affirmed teammates harbor no ill feelings toward Duren amid the drawn-out saga. The author believes Cunningham's strong friendship with Duren will be crucial in ensuring the center buys into the team's vision, whether he signs a multi-year deal or plays on the qualifying offer.