TITLE: Investigation Keeps Malik Beasley Waiting; Warriors Stall Signings as Kuminga Talks Drag On
SLUG: beasley-investigation-warriors-kuminga-free-agency
CONTENT:
Malik Beasley’s free-agent prospects remain uncertain while a federal sports-gambling probe continues to hover over the veteran guard.
According to The Stein Line’s Jake Fischer, Beasley is still considered a subject of the investigation despite lawyers telling ESPN he was no longer a target. The NBA is expected to open its own review once the federal case is resolved.
Limited Interest While Probe Lingers
The Cavaliers, Knicks, Timberwolves and Pistons have made only preliminary inquiries, Fischer reported. Should the league clear him, Beasley is believed to be looking for more than the veteran minimum. Among the four clubs, only Detroit currently has the cap room to meet that request.
Warriors Waiting on Jonathan Kuminga
Golden State’s contract standoff with forward Jonathan Kuminga is holding up several roster moves, per Fischer. The Warriors have deals lined up with Al Horford, De’Anthony Melton, Gary Payton II and second-round pick Will Richard but are holding off on finalizing those agreements until Kuminga’s situation is settled.
The delay has also affected other free agents. Malcolm Brogdon continues to draw interest from the Warriors, Knicks and Timberwolves, yet no progress is expected until Kuminga’s future is clarified. In addition, No. 52 overall pick Alex Toohey is viewed as a potential draft-and-stash option, as he was not mentioned in the team’s short-term plans.
Timberwolves Negotiating with Bones Hyland
Minnesota is working on contract terms for guard Bones Hyland, who is no longer eligible for a two-way deal. A partially or non-guaranteed pact is being discussed as the Timberwolves balance their payroll.
Heat Continue to Shop Terry Rozier
Miami is seeking a trade partner for Terry Rozier, another player connected to the federal betting investigation. Fischer described league-wide interest as minimal and noted that the Heat would consider a buyout if no trade emerges.
Nets Could Move Haywood Highsmith After December 15
Brooklyn does not intend to hold Haywood Highsmith long term, Fischer added. The forward, recovering from knee surgery and expected to miss the season’s opening stretch, becomes trade-eligible again on Dec. 15. His $5.6 million salary fits neatly into the taxpayer mid-level exception, making him a potential asset to flip for additional draft capital.
All of the above situations remain fluid as teams weigh legal uncertainties, cap flexibility and roster needs during the quieter phase of the NBA offseason.
Source: Hoops Wire
