Last season, Malik Beasley exceeded expectations during his stint with the Detroit Pistons. The veteran guard scored impressive numbers, proving to be a valuable asset for the team. The Pistons ultimately offered him a three-year, $42 million deal, excited to onboard the 28-year-old.
However, the recent federal investigation involving improper gambling and betting allegations had the team rescind its offer. And with the NBA yet to clear Beasley, his future in the league remains uncertain.
Malik Beasley Reveals NBA Team He Wants to Play With if He Clears Gambling Inspection
As mentioned, Beasley’s future with the NBA is currently on hold. Despite a stellar 2024-25 season, the NBA might not clear him, ultimately blocking his way back into the league.
However, despite the controversy, Beasley still holds onto hope for his return to the NBA. In fact, Beasley already has a team in mind. Speaking to his audience on social media, Beasley said:
“If I do go back to the NBA, it’s gonna be with the Pistons. I haven’t signed anything yet, but I have my strongest ties there. I had my best season there last year, and hopefully I can fit back in with the team.”
He remained realistic about his approach, setting his sights on the Pistons. That being said, even if the NBA clears Beasley, other teams might not be open to signing him.
Additionally, Beasley revealed that he personally cannot talk to the team, but his agent can. This could include negotiations and possible contracts, all of which are based on decisions made by the league.
“I personally can’t talk to the Pistons my agents can team wise there’s no official offer yet because NBA hasn’t cleared us yet,” Beasley explained in his update.
Moving to Detroit after a stint with the Milwaukee Bucks, Beasley averaged 16.3 points, 2.6 rebounds, and 1.7 assists per game last season. Performing consistently, he was second only to Cade Cunningham (26.1PPG) and Jaden Ivey (17.6PPG).
Beasley Was Open About Public Fallout After Gambling Scandal
In June, Beasley was reported to be under federal investigation for illegal gambling allegations. The NBA conducted a separate search, which ultimately resulted in him missing out on the suspected $42 million offer.
Later, in October, reports revealed that the NBA had not found anything concrete. And while the FBI’s investigation has led to other arrests, Beasley’s year has taken a sharp turn.
Not only did he go unsigned in free agency, but he also lost on a deal with the Chinese sportswear company Xtep. He also divorced his wife, Montana Yao.
“I truly want to just hoop.. no training camp to build chemistry off of the season we just had, 42 mil gone, jersey # gone, defamation, a divorce, lost my shoe deal, and at that I can’t even explain anything yet..,” Beasley said, opening up about the entire ordeal.
He added that the situation has only made him stronger, and he’ll be ready for whatever comes his way. Especially as he only wants to ‘hoop’.
While another contract from a new team seems unlikely, the Pistons might sign Beasley to a deal once the investigation surrounding him clears.