Photo: Peter Baba

The Detroit Pistons are making a strong effort to retain restricted free agent Jalen Duren, reportedly increasing their contract offer to what they believe is the maximum they are willing to pay.

Detroit is also not interested in facilitating a sign-and-trade involving the young center and intends to match any offer sheet Duren signs with another team.

Despite the Pistons’ stance, the player has scheduled free-agent meetings with the Kings and Lakers as he explores his options before making a decision on his future.

Duren has played 4 seasons for the Pistons. He has averaged 13.5 points, 10.3 rebounds and 2.1 assists in 276 regular-season games.

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