Mike Watters-Imagn Images
Detroit Pistons guard Malik Beasley has been one of the league’s shooters this season, ranking second overall with 171 total 3-pointers made.
In the process, Beasley has helped the Pistons defy expectations with a 23-23 record and remain in the mix for a playoff spot in the Eastern Conference.
Following practice, Beasley spoke with HoopsHype for an extended interview to discuss why he chose Detroit in free agency, his impact on and off the court, Cade Cunningham’s “All-Star” season in his words, J.B. Bickerstaff behind the scenes, his chances of participating in the 3-point Contest at NBA All-Star Weekend, his free agency future, and more.
What made you choose Detroit in free agency?
Malik Beasley: I chose Detroit because I wanted to go through the grit and grind and show that I could be a veteran and a leader. I think with the last couple of teams, as I’ve bounced around the league, I haven’t really been able to show leadership being on a team with LeBron and different guys. Here, I’m able to bring my playoff experience and everything I’ve been through in my life. I feel like I can bring different aspects to this team. Also, my family is from here, so it’s like a second home. Plus, my first year in the East was with Milwaukee last year, and I wanted to stay in the East one more year to see how it went.
How do you feel you’ve been able to impact the Pistons on and off the court?
MB: By showing my leadership in terms of hard work. For example, I’m the first one to the gym in practice. I feel like I’ve won a few games with some clutch threes. I’ve been using my experience the best I can and making shots at the end of games.
This team has made a drastic turnaround compared to last season. Why do you think that’s happened?
MB: Leadership with the veterans that came in. We’ve all had playoff experience and have been in the spotlight. We’re here to help this team come together as a whole. I think that’s what really changed it. If you looked at their games last year, they weren’t losing by 30 every game. They were close in every game. I feel like Cade (Cunningham) needed some shooters around him and veterans to help space the floor. I feel like we’re doing a great job of doing that.
What are your thoughts on Cade Cunningham’s growth this season?
MB: Cade is definitely an All-Star. We should be waiting for that news soon. He’s been doing this, but he’s probably getting recognition because we’re getting some wins. It tends to be that way. We’ve just got to keep rolling in the right direction.
What’s it been like playing for J.B. Bickerstaff, and how has he impacted the team?
MB: He’s impacted the Pistons in multiple ways. He’s teaching us what grit and grind really means and trusting the process. He doesn’t care about the results as long as the process is the right way. That’s how life is. We’ve bought into him and trust him. He trusts us, too. He’s been an extremely good coach in his first year with us, and we’ve all gotten on board together. The chemistry is unmatched.
How has Bickerstaff unlocked you, and what’s your relationship with him?
MB: He’s helped me a lot. He draws plays up if I have it going. Even on nights when I’m not shooting, he’ll still draw up a play, or he’ll tell me, “We trust you” every single time, and so do my teammates. That’s a confidence thing. Also, coach Bickerstaff sees the work I put in. When they come from the hotel, they already see me at the gym in a full sweat, and they know I put in the work. I think that gives him trust as well.
What goals do you have for the rest of the season?
MB: Hopefully, I get into the 3-point contest. I think the decisions have already been made. Other than that, my main goal is to get to the playoffs. I feel like to be able to come from a championship-caliber team and coming to this team and making it to the playoffs would be huge. I think that, individually, that will make me better. I want us to make the playoffs, get a couple of wins, and continue to go in the right direction. The vibes are amazing.
Did you get an invite to the three-point contest?
MB: They asked me if I’d do it three weeks ago, and I said yes, but we’re just waiting to see. All the All-Stars have to pick. They get the first dibs. Once the All-Stars decide, they’ll let me know if I get in.
Do you guys talk about the playoffs in the locker room?
MB: Of course. We’re talking about it now. With our schedule coming up, these are all playoff-caliber games. Every day, we talk about that. It’s not like, “Oh, we have a chance.” No. At this point, we’re trying to figure out where we can get better as a team to prepare for those games.
How’s it been living in Detroit as a family?
MB: It’s been amazing. I have my cousins and family. I get home-cooked meals. It’s pretty dope having them there.
After this season, you’ll be a free agent. What have you thought of that, and where does a possible return to Detroit fit in that equation?
MB: It fits huge. Me and Trajan (Langdon) have been talking a lot. We’re trying to figure out what’s going to happen. I still have to get through this trade deadline. There are some championship teams that want me, but I told Trajan I like where I’m at. He told me about the impact I’ve brought. Hopefully, he agrees. He also told me it’s a business. If a championship team comes with a crazy deal, the business is the business. We’re just waiting for the deadline to go through. After that, I think we’ll start talking about if maybe we can put something together.
Is there anything else you think is worth shedding some light on?
MB: I want people to know Detroit basketball is back. We’re all here together, working hard. I think all our journeys were put together for a reason, and we’re putting it together.
