Former Detroit Pistons shooting guard Malik Beasley has been cleared in a federal gambling investigation. Before this news has even had a moment to breathe, a Detroit rival is jumping in, hoping to steal one of the top remaining free agents. The New York Knicks are reportedly among the teams now looking to sign Beasley on the heels of the great news, per ClutchPoints' Brett Siegel.
It doesn't come as a surprise, as the veteran's shooting is going to be a hot commodity at this stage of free agency. There is no shortage of potential fits around the league.
Still, the Pistons should have the advantage of offering Beasley a familiar setting. This is where the shooter enjoyed a breakout season and became a pivotal piece of a playoff contender. In New York, there will be far more pressure and less understanding if the shooter were to get off to a rough start. The Pistons have the defensive pieces to help Beasley if things hit a rough patch.
For the Knicks, it is going to need to be instant production, or the franchise has other options it can turn to. With this in mind, Beasley should remain in Detroit, re-signing with the Pistons after finishing his part in the investigation.
Pistons Can't Allow Rival to Steal Key Shooter
Already, the Pistons are fighting an uphill battle, losing a handful of key pieces in free agency. Bringing back Beasley makes the organization and fan base feel far better about its potential heading into the 2025-26 season. With Jayson Tatum and Tyrese Haliburton both expected to miss next season, the Eastern Conference remains wide open.
Detroit can easily make an argument that if young players continue to develop as expected, they will become surprise contenders. All the needed pieces except for Beasley are already in place. Pay the shooter what it takes to reunite and prevent a key piece from joining a rival. It is the clearest path to returning to contention and gives the Pistons a great late offseason boost.
For Beasley, the argument is simply where the shooter prefers a more proven team or a better opportunity. There will be organizations with stars reaching out to attempt to land Beasley in the final days of free agency. It will simply come down to whether the veteran prefers minutes and familiarity or joining a more established veteran team.