Malik Beasley’s offseason was supposed to be about securing a long-term deal after a breakout year with the Detroit Pistons. Instead, it’s been clouded by an ongoing gambling investigation, one that has now drawn public comment from his attorney, Steve Haney, in a telling update that reveals both frustration and hope.
“They’re conducting an internal investigation, more of a misconduct investigation,” Haney told the Detroit Free Press. “We’re cooperating, providing whatever information we can to hopefully get Malik clear so he can resume his free agency”.
The saga began when Beasley was linked to a federal investigation into improper gambling activity during the 2023–24 season, specifically while he was with the Milwaukee Bucks. Though Haney confirmed that Beasley is no longer a target of the federal probe, the NBA has launched its own internal review to determine whether any violations occurred under the league’s collective bargaining agreement.
The league’s investigation is reportedly focused on misconduct rather than criminal behavior, but the consequences could still be severe, ranging from fines to suspension, or even a ban if wrongdoing is confirmed.
Before the investigation surfaced, Beasley was in advanced talks with the Pistons on a three-year, $42 million contract. That deal evaporated overnight once news broke of the probe. According to Haney, the leak, originating from the Eastern District of New York, had a “catastrophic” impact on Beasley’s market value.
“This leak… definitely caused him to lose some opportunity in free agency,” Haney said. “Hopefully there’s still a pathway that he can get back on track for next season”.
Beasley, who averaged 16.3 points per game and finished second in Sixth Man of the Year voting, had played all 82 games for Detroit and set franchise records for three-pointers made. His performance made him one of the most sought-after shooters on the market… until the investigation froze all negotiations.
Despite the setback, Beasley remains hopeful about returning to Detroit. Haney noted that Beasley has a deep personal connection to the city, his mother’s hometown, and would welcome the chance to play there again.
“It’s definitely a place I want to be,” Beasley said earlier this summer. “To be able to perform in front of this city is huge, and I’m glad I got a chance to do that”.
However, with the Pistons signing Caris LeVert, Duncan Robinson, and Javonte Green, the window may be closing. The maximum Detroit can now offer Beasley is $7.2 million, a steep drop from the original deal.
The NBA’s investigation is still ongoing, and Beasley’s future hangs in the balance. Haney emphasized that his client remains uncharged and is not the target of any criminal proceedings. But in a league where perception can be as damaging as proof, Beasley’s road back may depend on how quickly the NBA clears his name.
Until then, he remains in limbo, waiting for a verdict not from a courtroom, but from the league office.
