The Lakers’ dreams of acquiring a Jalen Duren might already be coming to an end.

According to senior ESPN NBA writer Marc J. Spears, the Detroit Pistons have reportedly offered Duren the most lucrative contract possible and do not have an interest in any sign-and-trade deals that will match any potential offer he signs.

Duren is set to be a restricted free agent for Detroit.

On Monday, the Lakers were reportedly set to meet with Duren on Tuesday to work out a sign-and-trade deal.

But with Detroit apparently no longer looking to give Duren up so easily, the Lakers’ strategy might force them to pivot.

Last year, Duren was selected to his first NBA All-Star game last season after averaging 19.5 points, 8.5 rebounds, and 1.2 blocks per game, helping the Pistons snap an 18-year playoff drought as the number 1 seed in the Eastern Conference.

With DeAndre Ayton and Jaxson Hayes listed as two centers on the Lakers roster, they will have to look elsewhere if they want to upgrade the position.

Two weeks ago, Luka Dončić said he wanted the Lakers to acquire more shooters and wants the team to land an A-list center, to help him run the pick and roll, like he famously did with the Dallas Mavericks, when they went to the 2024 NBA Finals.

The Market at center is rather thin this offseason, as Ayton was considered the top player at the position before he opted in to his $8.1 million option on Monday.

According to the reports of Duren meeting with the Lakers, the Sacramento Kings were also scheduled to meet with him and were reportedly set to offer 30-year-old Domantas Sabonis in order to trade for Duren.

The team has also reportedly had interest in acquiring Walker Kessler of the Utah Jazz, who would be a huge upgrade over Ayton.