Pistons’ Malik Beasley Makes Case to Stay Amid Trade Rumors

DETROIT, Mich. — Malik Beasley, a veteran shooter with the Detroit Pistons, approached General Manager Trajan Langdon a few weeks ago, pleading, “Don’t trade me.” With the NBA trade deadline now passed, Beasley’s request has been granted as he continues to contribute to a team surprisingly at .500 with a 26-26 record following a recent victory.

On Friday night, Beasley showcased why he’s an invaluable asset for the Pistons, scoring a career-high 36 points during a nationally televised game on ESPN. His performance was key in leading the Pistons to a win over the Philadelphia 76ers, signaling his determination to help snap the team’s six-year playoff drought.

“He came to me a couple of weeks ago and said, ‘Please don’t trade me, I want to be here,’” Langdon said after the shootaround Friday morning. “Which means a lot. In the summer, we wanted guys who want to be here. He’s a player who has consistently shown his commitment to Detroit through both his words and actions.”

Beasley, who has deep family ties to Detroit—having grown up on the West Side of the city—has been vocal about his desire to leave a lasting legacy with the Pistons. Entering Friday’s game, he ranked second in the NBA this season for made three-pointers and converted nine of his 19 attempts against the 76ers, including five in the first half when the Pistons built a commanding 78-49 lead.

“To be able to talk to your GM is huge, to have that relationship,” Beasley said after the game. “I told him from the jump I want to be here, I want to help build this organization up.”

In recent matchups, Beasley has consistently displayed his shooting prowess. On Monday against the Atlanta Hawks, he started the game by making three of his first four three-point attempts. He has shown a tendency to start strong, with impactful performances against the Chicago Bulls and the Dallas Mavericks in prior games.

His teammate, Isaiah Stewart, praised Beasley’s energy and approach to the game, stating, “I’ve never met someone with his energy. He loves moments like this, when it’s time for him to step up.”

Beasley was also named a substitute for the NBA All-Star Weekend’s three-point contest but did not make the final roster as Cade Cunningham was chosen instead. Despite this, Beasley expressed his commitment to helping Cunningham prepare: “I’m going to work with him, teach him everything I’ve learned,” he said. “If he wins, I’ll win.”

As the season progresses, Beasley remains focused on his goal to contribute to the Pistons’ push for the playoffs. His resolve to remain with the team and his recent performances may play a crucial role in Detroit’s efforts to return to postseason contention.