Lakers schedule second meeting with restricted free agent Jalen Duren

The Los Angeles Lakers held a meeting with restricted free agent Jalen Duren on Tuesday and have arranged a follow-up session for Wednesday morning, according to a report from The Athletic. Duren, a former All-NBA big man, is in a contract dispute with the Detroit Pistons, who have offered terms far below his expectations.

Lakers officials indicated they view Duren as a maximum-salary player, a stance that could attract the 22-year-old given his reported dissatisfaction with Detroit’s offer. The team, which is seeking a long-term solution at center to complement its backcourt of Luka Dončić and Austin Reaves, believes Duren’s ability to finish lob passes fits well with its offensive style.

Duren also met with the Sacramento Kings, who are reportedly considering a sign-and-trade that would pair him with rookie point guard Darius Acuff Jr. However, the Kings lack sufficient cap space to acquire him without such a deal.

While the Lakers have cap flexibility after LeBron James announced he will play elsewhere next season, the Pistons have said they will not entertain a sign-and-trade and intend to match any offer sheet Duren signs. This could limit the Lakers’ ability to present an offer that Detroit would reject, and the Kings may also struggle to assemble a trade package acceptable to the Pistons, who are reluctant to part with veteran Domantas Sabonis.