updates suggest Malik Beasley could still face legal consequences following the DOJ investigation

Malik Beasley, the former Detroit Pistons guard, has found himself in the midst of a legal investigation, casting a shadow over his NBA future and potential multimillion-dollar contract.

The Department of Justice has been investigating Beasley for activities during the 2023-24 season, with allegations of unusual movements in betting lines for prop bets concerning his rebounds. However, recent reports suggest that Beasley is no longer a target of this investigation.

The term "target" in this context has a specific legal meaning, referring to someone whom the prosecutor or grand jury has substantial evidence linking to the commission of a crime. Beasley's attorneys, Steve Haney and Mike Schachter, have reportedly held "extensive conversations and meetings" with prosecutors from the Eastern District of New York, which could have contributed to the development in his case.

Despite no longer being a target, Beasley's status remains "uncharged," meaning he has not been formally accused of any wrongdoing. Grand juries are conducted in secret, making it impossible to know the exact status of Beasley beyond his attorneys' statement.

The NBA has also been investigating player wagering and other prohibited conduct, relying on organizations that monitor sports betting, data shared from betting operators, and subject matter experts. The league has the authority to punish a player for breaking contractual, labor, and employment obligations, even if the player is not charged or convicted in a criminal investigation.

The NBA's top executives, Rick Buchanan and Dan Spillane, are experienced in conducting such investigations. This was evident in the case of Jontay Porter, who was involved in a scheme to bet against himself and was subsequently banned for life by the NBA.

Beasley's potential contract negotiations could be influenced by whether teams view him as a possible legal risk. His ability to secure a multimillion-dollar contract may be affected if teams are concerned about the ongoing investigation.

The investigation put a pause on Beasley's planned three-year, $42 million contract with the Pistons. However, several teams have shown interest in Beasley since the lifting of the investigation by the Department of Justice. These include the New York Knicks, Cleveland Cavaliers, Minnesota Timberwolves, and Detroit Pistons.

It's important to note that Beasley's agents likely have a financial stake in him signing a contract. Most agents are compensated via commissions.

In addition to Beasley, Miami Heat guard Terry Rozier has reportedly been investigated by federal authorities for possible alterations in his play in connection with bets. Whether he faces NBA sanctions is up to the NBA.

While Beasley is no longer a target of the Department of Justice investigation, the investigation has undoubtedly impacted his NBA career. The outcome of the investigation and its impact on his future in the league remain to be seen.

updates suggest Malik Beasley could still face legal consequences following the DOJ investigation