For a few days, it looked like Malik Beasley’s career might be back on track. Reports suggested the sharpshooter had been cleared as a “target” in the federal gambling investigation that’s rocked the NBA. But while that change in status was encouraging, the reality is Beasley remains very much under scrutiny and could still face charges.
According to Alex Schiffer of Front Office Sports, federal prosecutors have simply adjusted their view of Beasley’s role in the probe. ESPN initially reported that Beasley had been totally cleared, but sources clarified that’s not accurate.
Beasley is still considered a subjectin the ongoing investigation, meaning his conduct is within the scope of the grand jury’s work. By definition, that leaves open the possibility of criminal charges.
Beasley was in line for a lucrative new deal this summer after an impressive year with the Detroit Pistons. He appeared in all 82 games, averaging 16.3 points while hitting 41.6% of his threes, the second-most made three-pointers in the league.
Both sides were reportedly working toward a three-year, $42 million extension before the gambling probe surfaced in June.
Instead, the Pistons pivoted. They added Caris LeVert and Duncan Robinson, leaving little room for Beasley. While Detroit still holds his non-Bird rights, allowing them to re-sign him for up to $7.2 million, the roster moves signal the team may have moved on.
Other possible destinations like the Bulls, Pacers, Pelicans, Kings, and Wizards could still offer him the mid-level exception. But signing him while the federal investigation remains active carries its own risks.
The gambling probe is not Beasley’s only problem. He is being sued for over $2 million by his former agency for breach of contract. Earlier this month, he was also evicted from his Detroit apartment over unpaid rent, with his landlord filing multiple suits against him.
Haney pushed back against the perception that Beasley is broke, but admitted his client has suffered from poor management in the past.
The investigation reportedly focuses on suspicious betting activity during Beasley’s 2023–24 season with the Milwaukee Bucks, where irregular prop bets caught the attention of sportsbooks. Even if prosecutors decline to bring charges, Beasley could still face NBA discipline for violating league gambling rules.
With training camps just weeks away, Beasley’s future is uncertain. He remains a subject of an active federal investigation, unsigned in free agency, and caught in a limbo that could derail his NBA career.
Thank you for being a valued reader of Fadeaway World. If you liked this article, please consider following us onGoogle News. We appreciate your support.