Malik Beasley of the Detroit Pistons
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Top NBA free agent Malik Beasley is reportedly under investigation amid a gambling probe. It could turn into an extremely costly mistake should wrongdoing be uncovered.
We’ve seen these investigations lead to NBA bans in previous instances. Should Beasley be found guilty of violating the league’s conduct policy, he’ll likely miss out on a major payday.
Beasley has played nine professional seasons, the most recent of which came with the Pistons. After averaging 16.3 points per game, the second-highest output of his career, he was expected to get paid with a new deal this offseason.
Shams Charania reports that Beasley and Detroit were in “serious talks on finalizing a three-year, $42 million contract.” Those negotiations are now on pause.
“Sources tell me that the US District Attorney’s Office is investigating Detroit Pistons guard Malik Beasley on allegations of gambling on NBA games and prop bets. I’m told that it was allegedly during the 2023-24 season… As of now, he has not been charged of anything.”
Malik Beasley is now at the center of a gambling investigation. That probe revolves around NBA game wagers and prop bets dating back to the 2023-24 season.
In the past, sports betting has resulted in the dismissal of former NBA stars from the league. Most recently, Jontay Porter received a permanent ban after he was found to have manipulated outcomes involving his own prop bets.
He was proven to have prematurely exited games in order to ensure the “under” hit in multiple instances. He could also face prison time due to the NBA gambling scheme.
Shams Charania, who reported the news, has been adamant on clarifying that an investigation is not a charge. Malik Beasley has not been found guilty of any wrongdoing to this point. This is simply the process of uncovering the truth.
Should he be found guilty, however, he can kiss his $42 million deal with the Detroit Pistons goodbye.