Malik Beasley Cleared in Gambling Probe, Free Agency Reopens
UPDATE: Malik Beasley is no longer a target in the federal gambling investigation conducted by the Eastern District of New York, his attorneys confirmed to ESPN just moments ago. This development could dramatically reshape the free agency landscape for one of the NBA’s premier shooters.
Beasley’s lawyers, Steve Haney and Mike Schachter, revealed that extensive discussions with federal authorities led to this determination, following allegations regarding gambling on NBA games during the 2023-24 season. “Months after this investigation commenced, Malik remains uncharged and is not the target of this investigation,” Haney stated. “An allegation with no charge, indictment, or conviction should never have such catastrophic consequences.”
The implications of this announcement are significant. Just last month, on June 29, 2023, Beasley was reported to be under federal scrutiny, which halted all negotiations for his potential contracts, including a lucrative three-year, $42 million deal with the Detroit Pistons. Now, with the investigation cleared, teams are re-engaging with Beasley’s representation to explore contract opportunities.
Beasley, who averaged 16.3 points per game last season and set the Pistons’ franchise record with 319 three-pointers, is expected to attract considerable interest. His ability to stretch the floor and create scoring opportunities has made him a valuable asset. The NBA confirmed their cooperation with federal prosecutors during the investigation, but the latest updates open new avenues for Beasley’s career.
Multiple NBA teams, including the Chicago Bulls, Indiana Pacers, New Orleans Pelicans, Sacramento Kings, and Washington Wizards, have been in contact with Beasley’s agents regarding potential contracts. The Brooklyn Nets also have over $20 million in cap space, making them another contender for Beasley’s signature.
In the 2023-24 season, Beasley demonstrated his prowess on the court, averaging 11.3 points in 79 games with the Milwaukee Bucks, where he also made a career-high 77 starts. His performance attracted significant betting interest, particularly during a game against the Portland Trail Blazers on January 31, 2024, where unusual betting patterns were noted.
This investigation is part of a growing concern regarding gambling scandals in the NBA. Last year, former Toronto Raptors forward Jontay Porter was banned for disclosing confidential information to sports bettors. The National Basketball Players Association emphasized that evidence of widespread gambling issues in the league remains minimal.
As Beasley’s situation evolves, the basketball community watches closely. The urgency surrounding his free agency has intensified, and with teams now looking to secure his talent, the upcoming days will be crucial. Fans and analysts alike will be eager to see where this talented guard lands next.
In the wake of this news, Beasley’s past, including a felony charge of threats of violence in 2020, adds a layer of complexity to his narrative. However, the current focus is on his performance and potential in the league.
Stay tuned for more updates as Malik Beasley’s free agency trajectory unfolds.
