Ex-Pistons Star Negotiating Plea Deal in Gambling Case
Malik Beasley is negotiating a guilty plea after a federal gambling investigation cost him a $42 million contract with the Detroit Pistons.Summary
Malik Beasley, a former Detroit Pistons guard, is negotiating a potential guilty plea in a federal gambling case that derailed a three-year, $42 million contract. Prosecutors allege that Beasley, who earned nearly $60 million over nine NBA seasons, accumulated multimillion-dollar gambling debts and conspired with former Minnesota Timberwolves teammate Ed Davis to manipulate his performance in specific games during the 2023-24 season. According to a 22-page indictment, Davis loaned Beasley money to cover debts and received inside information about Beasley's intended performance, which was then relayed to bettors. One alleged scheme involved a February 27, 2024, game against the Charlotte Hornets, where $25,000 in wagers generated over $77,000 in profit after Beasley scored fewer points but grabbed more rebounds than projected. A court filing on Friday indicates Beasley intends to change his not-guilty plea, though his attorney, Steve Haney, says no agreement has been finalized and negotiations continue. Beasley had a standout 2024-25 season in Detroit, setting a franchise record with 319 three-pointers and helping the Pistons end a six-year playoff drought. He remains without an NBA contract as the legal proceedings continue.
(Source：Heavy.)