NBA Rumors: Pistons, Cavs, Malik Beasley, Pelicans, Willie Green, Pacers

Pistons

There remains real mutual interest in a Malik Beasley return to the Pistons, assuming he’s cleared in the ongoing federal gambling investigation, per Brett Siegel of ClutchPoints.

Detroit still has a path to get there. Javonte Green’s deal only carries a partial guarantee of $925,106 until January 10. If Beasley becomes available, Green could be waived to open the spot.

The Cavaliers also continue to monitor the situation, Siegel reports. They have an open roster spot and have explored small-to-medium shooting boosts for months.

Beasley’s camp has maintained that the Pistons remain the preferred landing spot. And Beasley himself said it outright.

“If I do go back to the NBA, it’s gonna be with the Pistons,” Beasley said, via Pistons Talk. “I haven’t signed anything yet, but I have my strongest ties there.”

Beasley also said, “I had my best season there last year, and hopefully I can fit back in with the team.”

Detroit originally planned to keep him. They were lining up a three-year, $42 million offer. Then the investigation surfaced and the Pistons pivoted to Caris LeVert and Duncan Robinson.

Detroit still holds Beasley’s Non-Bird rights, up to roughly $7.2 million. So yes, there’s still a lane.

Pelicans

Siegel reported the Pelicans had “serious internal conversations” about Willie Green’s future after the 0-6 start.

There was frustration with Jeremiah Fears playing ahead of Jordan Poole. There was pushback on starting DeAndre Jordan ahead of Yves Missi.

Lead exec Joe Dumars was also reportedly unhappy that Derik Queen wasn’t playing enough.

The Pelicans have since stabilized a little, but the early weeks rattled that room.

Pacers

Despite the injuries and 1-7 start, Indiana is not expected to go into sell-mode.

Siegel wrote that the focus is on financial positioning with an eye toward Tyrese Haliburton’s return next season.

League sources told Siegel it would be surprising if the Pacers made Andrew Nembhard, T.J. McConnell or Aaron Nesmith available.