Malik Beasley Cleared from Federal Gambling Probe, Free Agency Market Reopens for Detroit Pistons Star

Malik Beasley, one of the NBA’s elite sharpshooters and a key figure in this year’s free agency, has received major relief in his ongoing legal saga. According to attorneys Steve Haney and Mike Schachter, Beasley is no longer a target in the federal gambling investigation conducted by the U.S.

Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of New York. The update, first reported by Shams Charania via ESPN, could reshape Beasley’s career trajectory and reignite stalled contract negotiations.

Federal Gambling Investigation That Halted Malik Beasley’s Breakout Free Agency Moment

The federal probe, launched more than a year ago, focused on suspicious betting patterns connected to Malik Beasley’s performances during the 2023-24 NBA season with the Milwaukee Bucks. At the heart of the inquiry were “prop bets” - wagers tied to player-specific statistics like points, rebounds, or assists.In January 2024, a major U.S. sportsbook flagged irregular betting activity on Beasley’s stat lines, alerting federal authorities and leading to the involvement of the Eastern District of New York. As a result, Beasley’s anticipated free agency deal was put on hold, despite him being in prime position to sign a three-year, $42 million contract with the Detroit Pistons.Beasley’s career-best season, highlighted by 16.3 points per game and a Milwaukee franchise record 319 three-pointers, was overshadowed by the investigation.

The uncertainty around his future left teams cautious and unwilling to commit financially.

Timeline of Malik Beasley’s Legal and Career Developments

Additional Legal Complications with Agency Lawsuit

The gambling inquiry was not Beasley’s only off-court challenge. His former agency, Hazan Sports, filed a $2.25 million lawsuit against him, alleging breach of contract and failure to repay a $650,000 advance tied to marketing revenues.This combination of federal scrutiny and legal disputes created significant barriers for Beasley’s free agency, leaving one of the league’s most consistent shooters in limbo.

Legal Turning Point as Malik Beasley Officially Cleared from Gambling Probe

Malik Beasley’s attorneys have now confirmed he is no longer considered a target in the federal gambling case. Attorney Steve Haney emphasized the distinction, stating: “An investigation is not a charge.” This clarification provides both legal and public reassurance that Beasley’s name has been cleared from the most serious allegations.The decision not only lifts a cloud over his reputation but also removes a critical obstacle preventing NBA teams from pursuing him aggressively in free agency.

How Beasley’s Clearance Could Impact the NBA Free Agency Landscape

Known for his three-point consistency and durability—playing all 82 games last season—Beasley’s market value remains high. Analysts consistently rank him among the best remaining free agents of the 2025 offseason, with teams in need of outside shooting expected to reenter discussions now that his legal risks have eased.His ability to stretch defenses with elite shooting makes him a plug-and-play option for any roster.

The removal of the federal probe could accelerate renewed negotiations and allow him to finally secure the long-term contract that was previously derailed.At the league level, Beasley’s case highlights the NBA’s evolving relationship with legalized sports betting. The league continues to balance its partnership with betting operators while enforcing strict rules on player involvement, a tension further underscored by recent cases like Jontay Porter’s federal wire fraud charges.

A Clearer Future for Malik Beasley After Months of Uncertainty

For Malik Beasley, this development marks a critical step toward stability. While the lawsuit with his former agency still lingers, the resolution of the federal investigation removes the most damaging threat to his career.Fans, teams, and analysts will now shift their focus back to his basketball talent, particularly his unmatched perimeter shooting. As free agency progresses, Beasley appears poised to land the kind of deal that matches his on-court production.Also read: Jayson Tatum Injury Update: Boston Superstar Calls Rehab ‘Tedious’ Months After Achilles Injury Shakes Celtics’ SeasonHis journey over the past year illustrates the high stakes of life as an NBA player, where career-defining opportunities can be stalled by off-court issues. With this obstacle behind him, Beasley has a genuine chance to reshape his narrative and return to headlines for his shooting prowess rather than legal uncertainty.