Pistons Rotation, Pacers Tax, Cavs TV Deal

The Detroit Pistons and restricted free agent Jalen Duren have not yet agreed to a new contract, and a resolution does not appear imminent. The team's potential rotation for the upcoming season is coming into focus, assuming the All-Star center returns.

Langlois identifies four players as certain rotation pieces: Duncan Robinson, Paul Reed, Ron Holland, and free agent acquisition John Collins. Robinson and Collins are considered the favorites to secure the remaining starting roles alongside Duren. Reed is expected to see an expanded role after primarily backing up Duren and the now-traded Isaiah Stewart last season. Langlois also suggests third-year forward Ron Holland is poised for a significant leap in development.

Other players in contention for steady minutes include Isaiah Joe, who was acquired from Oklahoma City this offseason, and returning guards Kevin Huerter, Daniss Jenkins, and Javonte Green.

Pacers Face Luxury Tax Decision

The Indiana Pacers are currently projected to be a luxury tax-paying team for the first time since the 2004/05 season. The team has 14 players on standard contracts totaling $206.3 million, placing them approximately $5.9 million over the tax threshold. Pacers management has stated that ownership is willing to pay the tax if the team returns to prominence in the Eastern Conference.

However, the team could alternatively choose to trade one or more players with mid-sized contracts to get below the tax line before the season ends. Players mentioned as potential trade candidates include Kelly Oubre Jr., Ben Sheppard, Jarace Walker, and Jay Huff.

Cavaliers Announce New Broadcast Partner

The Cleveland Cavaliers have finalized a multi-year agreement with DAZN for local broadcasting rights. Under the deal, DAZN will stream all Cavaliers regular season games that are not selected for exclusive national broadcasts. As part of the arrangement, game production will be handled in-house through the Rock Entertainment Sports Network.

Previous reporting had indicated the Cavaliers were among the teams expected to strike a deal with DAZN for the 2026/27 season. The team's games were previously broadcast by Main Street Sports Group.

Other Central Division Note

In unrelated Central Division news, Thanasis Antetokounmpo has signed a multi-year contract with a Greek club. The brother of Giannis Antetokounmpo had spent six of the past seven seasons with the Milwaukee Bucks.