It was supposed to be a big offseason for free agent guard Malik Beasley.
Beasley averaged 16.3 points, 2.6 rebounds, and 1.7 assists in 27.8 minutes per game, playing in all 82 games for the Detroit Pistons during the 2024-25 season. He shot 43.0% from the field, 67.9% from the free-throw line and, most impressively, 41.6% from 3-point range.
With 3-point shooting being such a priority across the league, the 28-year-old Beasley was set to cash in on his career year.
Why Is Malik Beasley Still a Free Agent?
Instead of receiving the payday that Beasley thought was coming, the former Florida State Seminole was allegedly involved in a gambling ring.
“The U.S. District Attorney’s office is investigating Detroit Pistons guard Malik Beasley on allegations of gambling related to NBA games and prop bets, sources told ESPN,” reported Shams Charania. “Serious development surrounding one of the top NBA free agents.”
The legal troubles didn’t stop there. Beasley was also sued by a sports agency he employed for alleged breach of contract.
“The lawsuit was filed by Hazan Sports Management Group,” Yahoo’s Jason Owens reported. “Per the lawsuit obtained by Michigan Live and ESPN, Beasley has failed to repay Hazan Sports in full a cash advance of $650,000. The lawsuit seeks $2.25 million in damages and legal fees from Beasley.”
However, the situation has shifted in recent weeks. Beasley is no longer the target of a federal investigation, and now several teams are intrigued by the thought of signing him.
Which Teams Are Interested in Signing Malik Beasley?
According to Michael Scotto of Hoops Hype, several teams, including multiple contenders such as the New York Knicks and Cleveland Cavaliers, are doing their homework on Beasley.
“The Knicks and Cavaliers have checked in on Malik Beasley, sources told @hoopshype,” Scotto reported. “Knicks executive Gersson Rosas signed Beasley to a four-year, $60M deal with the Timberwolves. Knicks and Cavs have minimum deals to offer. Beasley is no longer a target of a federal investigation.”
Scotto went on to update his story, adding the Minnesota Timberwolves to the mix and suggesting that Beasley could return to Detroit.
“The Detroit Pistons and Minnesota Timberwolves have recently touched base on Malik Beasley, along with the New York Knicks and Cleveland Cavaliers, sources told @hoopshype,” Scotto said. “It’s worth noting Cavs guard Max Strus expects to miss 3-4 months after Jones fracture foot surgery.”
Beasley could clearly provide a shooting boost to any of these teams. All four squads made the 2025 postseason, and he’s already proven he can contribute at that level with his performance in Detroit. With teams limited to minimum salary offers, it will be intriguing to see where the veteran guard lands and how quickly he can make an impact.