The Detroit Pistons are signing former Milwaukee Bucks shooting guard Malik Beasley to a one-year contract, Beasley’s agency said on social media.
Beasley, 27, is 6-foot-4 and spent one season with the Bucks, averaging 11.3 points, 3.7 rebounds and 1.4 assists, shooting 44.3% from the field, 41.3% on 3-pointers and 71.4% on free throws. He appeared in all but three of the 82 regular-season games, starting in 77 of them.
Beasley has appeared in at least 79 games in each of the past three seasons.
He joins a Pistons team that is focused on adding veteran players after losing an NBA single-season record 28 straight games this past season. Along with Beasley, the Pistons have added forward Tobias Harris (Philadelphia 76ers) in free agency. They’ve also replaced coach Monty Williams with former Cleveland Cavaliers coach J.B. Bickerstaff.
As for Bickerstaff, the Pistons made the hiring official earlier in the week.
“I am pleased to have J.B. joining our franchise and commend our front office team on leading an extensive search,” Pistons owner Tom Gores said in a statement. “This is a pivotal time, and we need a leader who can immediately instill a culture of growth, development and inspiration. After spending time with J.B., it’s clear he is a passionate teacher with a competitive spirit who knows what it takes to win in today’s NBA.”
Bickerstaff spent five-and-half seasons with the Cavs.
“I’m excited to welcome J.B. Bickerstaff as our head coach,” head of basketball operations Trajan Langdon said. “I am confident that he is going to create an environment for our players that will prioritize development while building a highly competitive atmosphere. J.B. is a winner, a great communicator and will put systems in place to put our players in position to reach their potential. I look forward to partnering with him in executing our vision.”
Beasley has also spent time with the Denver Nuggets, Minnesota Timberwolves, Utah Jazz and Los Angeles Lakers in his eight NBA seasons.
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