Malik Beasley Cleared in NBA Gambling Inquiry, But future Remains Uncertain
Detroit, MI – NBA forward Malik Beasley has been informed he is no longer a target in the federal investigation into potential gambling on league games, according to statements released by his legal team. The news comes as a significant relief for the 28-year-old, whose free agency was effectively stalled following initial reports linking him to the probe.
The investigation, led by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of New York, has been sweeping in scope, examining potential irregularities in betting patterns surrounding NBA contests. beasley had been identified as a ”person of interest” due to unusual activity surrounding a game in February 2024, while he was a member of the Milwaukee Bucks. specifically, a prop bet on Beasley’s rebound total saw dramatic odds shifts after ample wagers were placed, ultimately resulting in a payout significantly favoring under 2.5 rebounds – a line he surpassed, finishing with six.
“Months after this investigation commenced, Malik remains uncharged and is not the target of this investigation,” stated attorney Steve Haney in a statement to ESPN. ”An allegation with no charge, indictment or conviction should never have the catastrophic consequence this has caused Malik. This has literally been the opposite of the presumption of innocence.”
While the U.S. Attorney’s Office has not publicly confirmed Beasley’s removal as a target – citing a policy of not commenting on ongoing investigations – the announcement is a clear attempt to rehabilitate his image and revive his NBA prospects.
The timing of the initial investigation proved notably damaging for Beasley. He was reportedly on the verge of signing a three-year, $42 million contract extension with the Detroit Pistons when news of the probe surfaced, abruptly halting negotiations. As then, the Pistons have moved to fill the void, acquiring Caris LeVert and Duncan Robinson.
“While it’s possible for Beasley to re-sign in Detroit, the dynamic has changed,” sources indicate. The Pistons currently have 14 players under guaranteed contracts, limiting their versatility.
Beasley enjoyed a strong season with the Pistons in 2023-24, averaging 16.3 points per game and shooting an impressive 41.6% from three-point range. However, with moast NBA rosters largely set for the upcoming season and teams navigating the complexities of the luxury tax, securing a lucrative contract may prove challenging.
Key Takeaways:
Malik Beasley is no longer a target in the NBA gambling investigation.
The investigation focused on a 2024 game with suspicious betting activity related to Beasley’s rebound prop.
Beasley’s potential contract with the Detroit Pistons was jeopardized by the investigation.
His future in the NBA remains uncertain despite the positive development.
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