Malik Beasley cleared, several franchises already interested
Mar 30, 2025; Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA; Detroit Pistons guard Malik Beasley (5) reacts during the second quarter against the Minnesota Timberwolves at Target Center. Mandatory Credit: Matt Krohn-Imagn Images
Malik Beasley can finally breathe easy. The American guard is no longer a target in the federal investigation conducted by the Eastern District of New York regarding illegal gambling, according to his attorneys Steve Haney and Mike Schachter. This news, revealed by Shams Charania of ESPN, potentially reopens the free agent market for one of the best shooters in the NBA.
Breaking: Malik Beasley is no longer a target of the federal gambling investigation conducted by the Eastern District of New York, his attorneys Steve Haney and Mike Schachter told ESPN. This potentially reopens free agency for one of the NBA’s top shooters. pic.twitter.com/elbC09hprW
— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) August 22, 2025
A nightmarish summer finally ends
Since the Jontay Porter case, players involved in illegal gambling investigations have lived in uncertainty. Beasley was no exception after being placed under investigation for alleged incidents during the 2023-2024 NBA season. Evicted from his Detroit apartment, the 27-year-old guard was likely experiencing the worst summer of his career.
However, his on-court performance speaks for itself. Last season, Beasley had the best campaign of his career averaging over 16 points coming off the bench for the Pistons, along with an excellent 41.6% three-point shooting. These statistics even earned him second place in the Sixth Man of the Year voting.
A complicated market despite investigation closure
Although the investigation is closed, Beasley’s situation remains delicate. According to Michael Scotto of HoopsHype, the Cavaliers and Knicks have shown interest, with the Knicks having done « background work » on the case according to reporter Ian Begley.
The problem lies in the timing. Before the federal investigation, Detroit was negotiating a three-year, $42 million contract with Beasley. Today, the Pistons have signed Caris LeVert and Duncan Robinson to fill his absence and completed their roster to 14 players.
Other playoff teams like the Timberwolves, Warriors and 76ers could be interested, but most can only offer a veteran minimum contract. Beasley will likely have to accept a one-year minimum deal to prove his worth and secure a better contract next summer.
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