As you read this, Malik Beasley is sitting at home watching training camps wrap up and rosters finalize around the association. From a guy who started playoff games for Milwaukee less than two years ago to a free agent who can't even get a training camp invite, it's nothing short of a cautionary tale for how things work in this league.
Just a few weeks ago, it was looking like he still had a chance. The Detroit Pistons were supposedly interested, while the Cleveland Cavaliers were still weighing their options to stock up on depth pieces. But the offseason is coming to a close, and Beasley still remains a free agent as of this writing.
The market has spoken, and it's brutal: nobody wants what Beasley's selling anymore. Not after his latest controversy. But it's strange to think about considering how important he was to Milwaukee's identity not that long ago.
Malik Beasley remains unsigned with the NBA season fast approaching
Beasley gave the Bucks exactly what they needed during his stint: reliable 3-point shooting, strong defensive effort, and the willingness to let it fly without hesitation. Milwaukee's offense ran smoother with him spacing the floor, and he wasn't afraid of big moments when the playoffs came around.
Obviously, it has less to do with his skill level on the basketball court and everything to do with the league's investigation into gambling allegations against Beasley dating back to his time with the Bucks. That's rendered him damaged goods that nobody wants their franchise to touch. It simply doesn't make sense to invest a contract and a roster spot in a player who isn't sure when he can be allowed to return.
"I'll only say there that the investigation is ongoing," NBA commissioner Adam Silver was quoted as saying by ESPN's David Purdum in September. "As I understand it, there's still a federal investigation that's ongoing of Malik Beasley as well. We will address whatever is presented to us in his case."
But the NBA moves fast, and Beasley's weaknesses apparently outweigh his strengths now in teams' eyes. His defense was always questionable, his shot selection could be maddening, and he never really developed into more than a one-dimensional shooter. In today's league where everyone demands versatility, being just a shooter isn't enough anymore.
What's concerning is that shooting specialists usually find jobs somewhere. Teams always need floor spacing. The fact that Beasley is still available this close to the season means either he's asking for too much money or teams have genuine concerns about what he brings beyond the three-point line.
Maybe he's holding out for a better situation, waiting for an injury to create opportunity. Or maybe the league has just moved past him at 28 years old after everything that's been linked to him. That's the harsh reality for role players -- one or two down years and suddenly you're expendable.
The allegations are what they are, but at the end of the day, Milwaukee fans should remember Beasley fondly for what he contributed when he was here. He hit big shots, played his role, and helped the team compete. Sometimes that's all you can ask from a supporting piece.
But right now, he's a cautionary tale about how quickly things can change in this league. One year, you're starting playoff games, the next, you can't get a phone call.
It's not likely at this point that Beasley is getting signed any time soon. Teams always need shooting when injuries hit, but not when you're linked to a federal investigation. And the fact that it's taking this long says everything about where his value stands right now.