Jalen Duren suddenly the powerhouse of Pistons' playoff surge again

Jalen Duren looked like himself. That’s all the Detroit Pistons needed from their star big man in a commanding performance against the Cleveland Cavaliers in Game 1 of the Eastern Conference semifinals Tuesday, May 5, at Little Caesars Arena. The 22-year-old was responsible for three of the loudest and most consequential baskets of the night, and they came in quick succession.

With the game tied at 93, Duren finished three straight dunks – two from dump-off passes from Cade Cunningham, the third courtesy of a one-handed bouncer from Cunningham from just past the halfcourt line. It gave the Pistons a lead they didn't relinquish en route to a 111-101 win . MITCH ALBOM: Pistons' others show they belong, and so does Detroit But Duren already had impacted the game in other ways before that pivotal stretch.

The Cavaliers couldn’t keep him off of the offensive glass. He read the floor. Defensively, he protected the rim and executed the Pistons' coverages.

The totality of Duren’s contributions can’t be replicated. After a slow start to the postseason, he has asserted himself in becoming one of the best players on the floor for 10 straight quarters, dating back to the Pistons’ incredible comeback against the Orlando Magic in Game 6 on Friday. Tuesday brought his second straight double-double – 11 points, 12 rebounds (seven on offense) plus four assists and two blocks.