The Detroit Pistons' offseason has been unexpectedly derailed by the Malik Beasley saga. Just when the team was getting ready to re-sign him to a three-year deal, Beasley was hit with a federal investigation related to gambling. This thwarted the front office's plans, and the Pistons ended up looking elsewhere to fill their backcourt and shooting needs.
In recent weeks, however, Beasley has been removed from the investigation as a "target," allowing him to sign with any NBA team. While this doesn't necessarily mean that he has been cleared entirely, the former Pistons sharpshooter can likely continue his NBA career as early as this season.
And, from the sound of things, he wants his time in the unemployment line to end soon.
Malik Beasley Teases New Team Announcement Coming Soon
The veteran shooting guard just teased his return with a post on Instagram. Beasley said that he isn't listening to the outside noise and is looking to his tenth year in the league: "Year 10 is approaching... Probably the most interesting one of them all... And the goal remains the same... Be better than last year", while adding that his "decision is near".
Naturally, the Pistons remain an obvious landing spot for Beasley. The 28-year-old just had one of the best seasons of his career, playing a large role during Detroit's impressive playoff run. It was reported last week that Beasley had moved into his downtown Detroit apartment and was interested in a "possible reunion" with the Pistons. With an open roster spot and a desperate need for more shooting, the Pistons should undoubtedly be interested in Beasley, as well.
What complicates matters for the Pistons, however, is potential competition for Beasley. Earlier in the offseason, the Pistons were one of the few teams with cap space and could have given Beasley a lucrative three-year deal that would have paid him an annual eight-figure salary.
Now, cap space around the league has dried, including Detroit's, meaning that Beasley will likely sign a shorter deal closer to a veteran's minimum or taxpayer mid-level exception, which is set at $5.6 million for next season. This means that a lot more teams can pay Beasley, including title contenders like the New York Knicks, who reportedly have interest in the shooting guard.
The Pistons have the advantage of familiarity and continuity for Beasley. They can also offer a large role on offense, even a potential starting role after Tim Hardaway Jr.'s departure. Whether these will be enough to convince Beasley to re-sign in Detroit remains to be seen.