Looking back at it, the Chicago Bulls made the right decision drafting Derrick Rose with the No. 1 overall pick in the 2008 Draft. Michael Beasley was projected by some to be the better player and as things played out, that proved to not be true. The Phoenix Suns officially cut ties with the forward who continues a downward spiral in the NBA. Now a free agent, where could he be headed next?
The Suns announced that they were waiving Beasley after signing him to an $18 million deal in 2012. The team opted to buy out his contract and eat the guaranteed salary. The decision to release the forward comes after he was pulled over for a traffic violation and arrested on suspicion of marijuana possession. This was his fourth marijuana issue since entering into the NBA.
The first team linked to Beasley was the Los Angeles Lakers. The team had been in the market for a forward that they could sign for cheap. Beasley certainly fits that description, but instead general manager Mitch Kupchak opted to sign Shawne Williams instead. The six-year veteran has spent time with four different teams since being selected No. 17 overall in 2006. He had his greatest seasons under Mike D'Antoni with the New York Knicks, so the signing makes sense.
So who will be the next player to enter the Beasley market? It is likely that this is the forward's last chance at an NBA career, making him a risky signing no matter where he lands. The Oklahoma City Thunder could be a solid option. Right now Jeremy Lamb and Reggie Jackson are the scorers on the bench, which may or may not work out. Beasley has been averaging 13.9 points per game on 47 percent shooting. The team could do worse.
Unknown to some, Beasley and Kevin Durant have a history together. They grew up playing together in Maryland and host pro-am games over the summer. If Beasley is having a hard time finding his way, teaming up with Durant could certainly help.
The Miami Heat might also show interest in the young forward. The team has been down the Beasley path before, originally drafting him and cutting him loose two years later. Beasley was a cut necessary for the signing of LeBron James and Chris Bosh. They have taken risks before signing Chris Andersen and Greg Oden, so why not Beasley? He represents inexpensive scoring which every team needs.
At this point, Beasley will sign the first contract presented to him. Teams are likely not going to beat down his door showing interest. Anyone can get him for cheap and still get productivity out of him.
