Malik Beasley Eyes Redemption in 2025 NBA 3-Point Contest

DETROIT, Mich. — Detroit Pistons guard Malik Beasley is eyeing a return to the NBA 3-Point Contest in 2025, following a strong season that has solidified his reputation as one of the leagueu2019s elite sharpshooters. Beasley, who hinted at his participation by wearing a custom hoodie before a recent game against the New York Knicks, remains uncertain about his official inclusion, as All-Star selections take priority.

u201cThey asked me if Iu2019d do it three weeks ago,u201d Beasley said. u201cI said yes, but weu2019re just waiting to see. All the All-Stars have to pick. They get the first dibs. Once the All-Stars decide, theyu2019ll let me know if I get in.u201d

Beasley, 28, has been a standout for the Pistons this season, averaging 16 points per game while shooting 40% from beyond the arc on nine attempts per game. His performance has been a bright spot for Detroit, as he ranks second in the NBA in total 3-pointers made. Despite his teamu2019s struggles, Beasleyu2019s consistency and leadership have been invaluable.

Last season, Beasley fell short in the 3-Point Contest against his former Milwaukee Bucks teammate, Damian Lillard. This year, he hopes for redemption, calling a return to the competition one of his top goals for the 2024-2025 season.

Beasleyu2019s journey to becoming one of the NBAu2019s most efficient 3-point shooters hasnu2019t been linear. After averaging just 34% from deep in his first two seasons with the Denver Nuggets, he broke out in his third year, shooting 40% in 81 games. Since then, he has maintained a 39% career average from beyond the arc.

Beyond his on-court contributions, Beasley has emerged as a leader for the Pistons, setting an example for the teamu2019s younger players. u201cHeu2019s the first one to practice every day,u201d a team source said. u201cHe shows the young guys the type of dedication and work ethic required to have a long career in the NBA.u201d

However, Beasleyu2019s future with the Pistons remains uncertain. Signed to a one-year, $6 million deal, he has outperformed his contract, making him one of the best values in the league. Under NBA rules, Detroit can only offer him a 20% raise, which may not be enough to retain him in free agency.

u201cSome team is almost certainly going to offer more than $7.2 million after the way heu2019s played this season,u201d an analyst noted. u201cItu2019s going to be challenging for the Pistons to bring him back, especially if they make other moves.u201d

For now, Beasley continues to deliver clutch performances, like his 20-point outing against the Indiana Pacers, where he went 6-of-10 from 3-point range to keep Detroit competitive. Whether he remains a Piston beyond this season or earns another shot at 3-Point Contest glory, Beasleyu2019s impact on the court and in the locker room is undeniable.