Jalen Duren is the Raptors' dream offseason target (with a risk they know too well)

"Detroit's starting center, Jalen Duren, is set to become a restricted free agent this summer, and he would address several of Toronto's biggest weaknesses. The 22-year-old averaged 19.5 points and 10.5 rebounds during the regular season. It was a breakout campaign that helped propel Detroit to 60 wins and the No. 1 seed in the Eastern Conference. He is going to get serious All-NBA and All-Defense consideration."

"The Raptors finished the season ranked 24th in rebounding. Adding Duren, who finished near the top of the league in rebounds per game during the regular season, would be a huge boost to that weakness. Duren would address those rebounding concerns while fitting perfectly with this team's culture. He is a defensive monster, finishing 11th in defensive win shares. His athleticism also allows him to be one of the best transition centers in the league. At 22 years old, he fits the Raptors' young core's timeline."

"The answer to this question is simple: money. Duren is young and possibly turning into one of the best centers in the league. He is, however, still a flawed player. Duren is a total non-shooter from outside, and his 74.7% free throw shooting is only passable. He is also having a dismal postseason, averaging 10.4 points and 9.2 rebounds. Centers who cannot shoot and have trouble defending in space have a history of being played off the floor in the postseason."

"A rookie-scale max extension would pay Duren 25% of the team's salary cap. That is a devastating number if that player gets played off the floor in a playoff series. Is Duren worth the risk? Due to Toronto's high payroll, s"

Toronto is watching the Cavaliers–Pistons series after losing a seven-game playoff run to Cleveland. Detroit’s Jalen Duren is a restricted free agent and averaged 19.5 points and 10.5 rebounds in the regular season. Detroit’s 60-win season and top Eastern seed followed his breakout year. Toronto’s rebounding ranked 24th, and Duren’s rebounding production could directly improve that weakness. He also provides defensive value, including strong defensive win shares, and athleticism that supports transition play. His fit with a young core is emphasized by his age. Concerns include limited outside shooting, only passable free throws, and a poor postseason line, raising risk for a large contract.

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