It looked like Malik Beasley was in the clear, the 28-year-old guard remains in limbo as federal authorities continue to investigate NBA gambling violations.
Beasley is no longer classified as a target in the probe, but he is still considered a “subject,” according to Front Office Sports.
That designation is critical. If prosecutors or the grand jury had “substantial evidence” linking Beasley to criminal activity, he would remain a target. Instead, being labeled a subject means “his conduct is still within the scope of the grand jury’s investigation,” leaving open the possibility of charges depending on how the case develops.
Beasley’s attorney, Steve Haney, pushed back strongly on the situation.
“Malik is not charged, not indicted and not a target of the investigation, but he’s unemployed because of it,” he told The Detroit News. “It is flat-out un-American to be deprived of the right to work based on a mere allegation. Hopefully, this gives some new hope to his situation of being gainfully employed in the new year.”
Haney later admitted he had “no idea” if his client would ultimately face charges but argued the entire process has gone against the principle of fairness.
Before the probe began, Beasley was reportedly lined up for a three-year, $42 million deal with Detroit. Instead, the Pistons used that money to sign Duncan Robinson and Caris LeVert. While Beasley could still return to Detroit on a smaller contract, his uncertain legal status continues to scare off teams.
The investigation stems from alleged player prop bets placed during the 2023-24 season, when Beasley was with the Milwaukee Bucks. He is not the only player under scrutiny, Miami Heat guard Terry Rozier is also being investigated, while Jontay Porter was banned from the league last year.
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