BREAKING: Malik Beasley is officially no longer a target in the federal gambling investigation led by the Eastern District of New York, his attorneys confirmed on Friday. This development could radically change the landscape for Beasley’s free agency, allowing one of the NBA’s top shooters to resume negotiations.
Attorneys Steve Haney and Mike Schachter disclosed that after extensive discussions with federal officials, it was determined that Beasley will not face charges related to allegations of 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, emphasizing the unjust impact this has had on Beasley’s career and reputation.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of New York declined to comment, but the implications of this announcement are monumental. Just weeks ago, Beasley’s free agency was put on hold, halting negotiations for a potential $42 million contract with the Detroit Pistons. NBA spokesman Mike Bass previously noted the league’s cooperation with the ongoing federal investigation.
Beasley, who averaged 16.3 points last season and set the Pistons’ franchise record for three-pointers made, saw his opportunities evaporate due to the investigation. Sources indicate that multiple teams were interested in signing Beasley, but halted talks amid the uncertainty.
Since the investigation began, several teams have remained in touch with Beasley’s representation regarding his status. Following the Pistons’ decision to sign Caris LeVert, Beasley can now only re-sign for a maximum of $7.2 million. However, other teams such as the Chicago Bulls, Indiana Pacers, and New Orleans Pelicans could potentially offer him contracts exceeding that amount.
During the 2023-24 season, Beasley averaged 11.3 points across 79 games with the Milwaukee Bucks, marking a significant career milestone. Notably, a prominent sportsbook detected unusual betting patterns linked to Beasley’s performance, particularly on January 31, 2024, when bets on his rebounds surged dramatically, raising eyebrows in the gambling community.
This investigation adds to a troubling narrative surrounding gambling in the NBA. While Jontay Porter faced a ban for disclosing confidential information to bettors, the National Basketball Players Association (NBPA) reiterated that there is no evidence of widespread issues beyond recent cases. An NBPA spokesperson stated, “NBA players compete at the highest level with the utmost integrity and are concerned that prop bets have become an increasingly alarming source of player harassment.”
With this latest update, the urgency around Malik Beasley’s free agency is palpable. As teams scramble to finalize their rosters, Beasley’s next move could create significant ripple effects throughout the league. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see where the talented guard lands next.
Stay tuned for more developments on this evolving story.