Jalen Duren’s extension could reshape NBA’s view of Joel Embiid’s deal

Nathan Doyle argues that Jalen Duren's five-year, $200 million contract extension with the Detroit Pistons makes Joel Embiid's contract look much more reasonable. Despite Duren helping Detroit reach the top of the Eastern Conference standings, the writer asserts that Duren's individual accolades and defensive metrics do not justify such a massive financial commitment.

In contrast, Doyle highlights that Philadelphia 76ers center Joel Embiid earns around $13 million less on his three-year extension despite superior career accolades and higher production. The writer concludes that if Embiid stays healthy, Duren's inflated contract could help silence outside criticism regarding Embiid's deal.