Malik Beasley is no longer being investigated for gambling: now looking for a team

Malik Beasley is no longer considered a target in the federal investigation on sports betting being conducted by the Eastern District of New York, as confirmed by his attorneys Steve Haney and Mike Schachter to ESPN. This development could reopen the market for him as a free agent after weeks of uncertainty. The situation had completely stalled his future in the NBA, and according to his representatives, authorities' determination marks a significant step in clearing his name.

The attorneys explained that they had extensive conversations and meetings with the prosecution, following which they received confirmation that Beasley is not a target in the investigation concerning NBA game betting and individual forecasts during the 2023-24 season. Haney stated that, months into the process, his client has not been charged and is not considered the focal point of the investigation. He added that a mere accusation without charges or conviction shouldn't have such severe consequences, emphasizing that what has happened goes against the principle of presumption of innocence.

So far, the Eastern District of New York Prosecution has refrained from commenting. However, the case deeply impacted the player. ESPN reported on June 29 that Beasley was under investigation, abruptly halting all his negotiations just a day before the official opening of the free agent market. At that time, an NBA spokesperson stated that the league was cooperating with prosecutors in the inquiries. According to various sources, Beasley and the Detroit Pistons were about to finalize a three-year, $42 million contract, but the deal evaporated when the franchise learned of the investigation. Other interested teams also decided to halt any progress.

Nevertheless, several teams stayed in touch with the player's representatives in recent weeks to stay informed about his situation. Malik Beasley, 28 years old, is coming off an impressive season with Detroit Pistons, where he finished second in the Sixth Man of the Year voting. In the 82 games played, he averaged 16.3 points and made 319 three-pointers, the highest number in the franchise's history and second in the entire NBA only behind Anthony Edwards. Moreover, he ranked second in total points and threes off the bench, and achieved 248 catch-and-shoot threes, the best mark since advanced records began in 2013-14.

However, his immediate future has constraints. Detroit signed Caris LeVert with the full mid-level exception, limiting the maximum amount they can offer him annually to $7.2 million. Given this scenario, teams like the Chicago Bulls, Indiana Pacers, New Orleans Pelicans, Sacramento Kings, and Washington Wizards have exceptions to offer him higher contracts. Additionally, the Brooklyn Nets have over $20 million in salary cap space.

This news is an automatic translation. You can read the original news, Malik Beasley deja de ser investigado por apostar: ahora busca equipo