What happened: Detroit opened training camp with its starting center absent from the roster after extension talks failed to produce a long-term deal. Duren declined a five-year, $200M fully guaranteed offer and will miss media day and the start of camp.

Why it matters: The absence leaves Detroit without its interior anchor entering preparations for the 2026-27 season. It forces alternative frontcourt rotations while extension and qualifying-offer paths remain unresolved.

What to watch: The qualifying-offer deadline arrives Thursday. Watch whether either side revisits terms before camp practices advance.