Malik Beasley, an absolute bucket at the SG position, re-signed with the Minnesota Timberwolves for 4 yrs / $60 million.
KnicksFanTV reported last week that the Knicks were hot after Beasley and were trying to work out a sign and trade.
In the end, Beasley decided to stay with the ‘Wolves. According to Jon Krawczynski who covers the Timberwolves for The Athletic, the Timberwolves made him an offer he couldn’t refuse after learning the Knicks were very interested:
“the Knicks’ first priority for a wing was to get Gordon Hayward and that they told Beasley if they missed out they were coming after him.”
– Jon Krawczynski
After Minnesota got word of the Knicks’ interest in Beasley, they were ‘aggressive’ in making sure they retained him. According to Krawczynski, the Timberwolves were worried that the Knicks would be able to include terms in an offer sheet for Beasley that would be difficult for them to match. Beasley simply wasn’t a player the Timberwolves were willing to let go – especially considering they gave up a first-round pick to obtain him at last seasons trade deadline. He also has a modern NBA game and fits the style of play Minnesota prioritizes.
“He plays fast, hits 3s and attacks the rim, all tenets of their offensive philosophy.”
– Jon Krawczynski
Comfortable in Minnesota
Beasley was also reportedly appreciative of how the Timberwolves handled his recent legal issues. Staying put was his first priority.
“rather than wait to see if the Knicks were going to extend an offer, which very well could have come since they did miss out on Hayward, Beasley agreed to terms on the spot.”
– Jon Krawczynski
Beasley had a breakout second half of last season after being traded to the Timberwolves. He averaged 20.7 pts 5.1 rebs and 1.9 ast in his first 14 games with Minnesota and shot 42.6%. He would’ve have been a great acquisition had the Knicks been able to snatch him away from the Timberwolves.
CP from KnicksFanTV discussed the Malik Beasley rumors as they began to heat up with Alex Trataros from Hoops Habit. Check it out below. Also, stay tuned to knicksfantv.com for the latest Knicks news and rumors throughout the offseason and into the regular season.
