The Detroit Pistons’ had to change course quickly this offseason when news broke that Malik Beasley was under federal investigation for gambling. It was potentially devastating for Detroit, as Beasley was one of their best players last season and the centerpiece of their offseason plans. But could he be back? Beasley seems to think so.
On a recent episode of the “The Pat Bev Podcast” the mercurial host claimed he ran into Beasley recently and described their interaction thusly, ““He’s in good spirits. We chopped it up… he’s confident. Feels like he’ll be on the roster next season.”
The two hosts laughed this notion sarcastically, but Beasley has maintained his innocence and has carried on with his offseason workouts as if he’ll be suiting up next season.
That’s for the investigation to decide, as there has been some troubling information released about Beasley since this all became public, mostly regarding his financial situation that might have led to gambling.
All of that is speculation, as Beasley hasn’t been charged with anything, and if he is cleared, could make a return to the court next season at some point, but would it be for the Detroit Pistons?
Malik Beasley and the Detroit Pistons
Beasley had arguably the best season of his career under JB Bickerstaff in Detroit, finishing second overall in 3-point makes even though he mostly came off the bench.
He embraced the city of Detroit, where he has close family, and the city returned the favor, as he was a fan favorite all of last season, shimmying his way into Pistons’ fans hearts as he helped lead the team to its first playoff win since 2008.
But what about now?
Many fans have assumed Beasley’s guilt from the start, which isn’t fair, but even those who haven’t may have a different view of the sniper after these accusations.
Before all of this, Beasley was set to sign a new 3-year deal, so there was obvious interest from both sides on running it back, but after all of the negative publicity, it would probably be best for Beasley to resume his career elsewhere if he does get another chance.
The young Pistons don’t need that kind of attention hovering over them, and the team has since moved on, trading for Duncan Robinson and Caris LeVert, making Beasley’s services less needed.
That’s especially true if the Pistons can get anything from rookie Chaz Lanier, a 3-point specialist in the mold of Beasley.
It’s a shame how this all turned out, and I do hope Beasley is cleared to play again at some point, but given the baggage he now brings, it may not be with the Pistons.