Malik Beasley says Pistons would be his only NBA destination
malik-beasley-says-pistons-would-be-his-only-nba-destination
Guard Malik Beasley, currently away from the league amid a federal investigation, stated he intends to resume his NBA career in Detroit if he is cleared to return.
“If I do go back to the NBA, it’s gonna be with the Pistons,” Beasley told Pistons Talk. “I haven’t signed anything yet, but I have my strongest ties there.”
Beasley, 28, enjoyed a career-best campaign with Detroit last season and reiterated his desire for another stint immediately after the team’s first-round playoff exit to the New York Knicks. Beyond basketball reasons, he noted the city is his mother’s hometown and a place where he spent many childhood summers.
Before legal concerns surfaced, the Pistons were preparing a three-year, $42 million contract offer to keep the 6-foot-4 veteran. When reports emerged linking Beasley to a federal gambling probe, Detroit shifted course, signed Caris LeVert and acquired Duncan Robinson in a sign-and-trade deal.
Despite the change in plans, Detroit retains Beasley’s Non-Bird rights. The designation allows the club to re-sign him for up to roughly $7.2 million in the first season—about $31 million over four years—should his legal situation be resolved.
Representatives for Beasley insist mutual interest remains strong, leaving open a path for a reunion once the investigation concludes.
Source: Hoops Wire
