While searching for a center prior to the trade deadline, the Lakers reportedly asked about Jalen Duren of the Pistons.

With the trade deadline over and done with and the buyout market quickly closing, the Lakers have positioned themselves as title contenders.

While the front office deserves a high grade for their ability to upgrade the roster, areas still need improvement, particularly the center position.

The Lakers did try to address this by trading for Mark Williams, but the deal was rescinded after the team failed his physical. This wasn’t the only big man the Lakers had an eye on, though.

During a recent live stream on his YouTube, Jovan Buha of The Athletic revealed that center Jalen Duren of the Detroit Pistons was a player the franchise asked about. While fielding questions, Buha was asked about Duren, his availability and if the Pistons wanted to trade him.

“They did not and the Lakers inquired. However, you never know if things change in the summer.”

Duren is a young 21-year-old center who has showcased a lot of potential. He is a solid scorer and a good rebounder who is averaging 11.1 points and 10.3 rebounds per game. He isn’t known as a top defensive center so he can’t provide rim protection, but when Jaxson Hayes is your main big, any rotation center will do.

Duren would’ve been an upgrade, but you can’t buy what’s not for sale.

If Detroit had no interest in moving him at the deadline, then as Buha mentioned, perhaps you could inquire again in the summer and see if they are more open to a deal then.

Regardless of what happens this season, the Lakers must address the center position in the summer.

It was reported that even Luka wanted an upgrade at the center spot. While he was “impressed” with how quickly the Lakers acted in acquiring Williams, the need is still there.

So, whether the Lakers circle back on Duren, dig through the draft, or make a trade, expect a center to finally land in Los Angeles and stay on the team during the 2025-26 season.