A Seismic Shift in Milwaukee
In a shocking NBA free agency move, the Milwaukee Bucks waived All-Star guard Damian Lillard on July 1, 2025, stretching his remaining $113 million contract over five years to create cap space for signing free agent center Myles Turner to a four-year, $107 million deal. The move, reported by ESPN’s Shams Charania, ends Lillard’s two-year tenure with the Bucks as he rehabilitates a torn Achilles tendon. This article details the transaction, its implications for both teams, and reactions, based on recent reports.
The Transaction: Lillard Waived, Turner Signed
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Details: The Bucks waived Lillard, utilizing the NBA’s stretch provision to spread his $113 million contract over five seasons, freeing up cap space. They then signed Turner, formerly of the Indiana Pacers, to a four-year, $107 million contract with a player option for 2028-29 and a 15% trade kicker.
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Turner’s Profile: The 29-year-old, 6-foot-11 center spent 10 seasons with the Pacers, averaging 15.6 points, 6.5 rebounds, and 2.0 blocks per game in 2024-25, with a career-best 39.6% from three-point range. Turner’s 46 blocks in the Pacers’ playoff run and rare combination of 700 three-pointers and 1,400 blocks make him a versatile big man.
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Lillard’s Exit: Lillard, 34, suffered a torn Achilles during the 2025 playoffs against the Pacers, sidelining him for most or all of the 2025-26 season. His two seasons in Milwaukee included a 2023-24 All-NBA Second Team selection, but his injury and $63.2 million salary for 2025-26 prompted the Bucks’ decision.
Strategic Context and Team Impact
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Bucks’ Motivation: The move pairs Turner with Giannis Antetokounmpo, addressing Milwaukee’s need for a rim-protecting, floor-spacing center after Brook Lopez’s departure. Turner’s defensive prowess and shooting complement Antetokounmpo’s game, with both players reportedly valuing the partnership. The Bucks, out from second-apron restrictions, aim for a deep playoff run despite Lillard’s absence.
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Pacers’ Perspective: Indiana’s aversion to the luxury tax, exacerbated by Tyrese Haliburton’s Achilles injury in the 2025 NBA Finals, led to a low-ball offer for Turner, their top free agency priority. His departure after a Game 7 Finals loss to the Thunder weakens their frontcourt.
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Lillard’s Future: Waived and rehabbing, Lillard is expected to clear waivers and become a top free agent in 2026, with interest from teams like the Miami Heat, his preferred destination in 2023.
Community and Industry Reactions
Social Media Sentiment
Posts on X reflect shock and mixed feelings. Fans like @Three_Cone expressed disbelief at the rapid news, while @walkerRcarey noted the Bucks likely consulted Antetokounmpo, suggesting his approval. @AidanDoc__ praised Turner as a “perfect fit” for Giannis but questioned the Bucks’ future without Lillard, and @jam7_jack5 criticized the move as shortsighted, citing Milwaukee’s Finals drought. @BrotherlySixers compared it to the Phoenix Suns’ cap struggles.
Industry Insights
Analysts view the move as a bold pivot. ESPN’s Shams Charania highlighted Bucks GM Jon Horst’s creative cap management, preserving draft assets. The Athletic noted Lillard’s waiver as a “reprieve,” freeing him to rehab without pressure. CBS Sports called Turner’s signing “incredibly shocking” given expectations he’d stay with Indiana. Critics question Milwaukee’s lack of a primary playmaker, with only Gary Trent Jr. and Kevin Porter Jr. returning as guards.
The Bigger Picture: NBA Roster Dynamics
The Bucks’ move reflects the NBA’s trend toward aggressive roster retooling, especially after injuries to stars like Lillard and Haliburton. India’s NBA fanbase, growing 15% annually, is captivated by such blockbuster deals, with no direct impact on Indian players but significant buzz around Antetokounmpo’s future. Milwaukee’s signings of Bobby Portis ($44M, three years), Gary Trent Jr. ($7.5M, two years), and Kevin Porter Jr. ($11M, two years) signal a “run-it-back” approach around Antetokounmpo, but without Lillard, their title hopes hinge on Turner’s impact.
FAQ: Key Questions Answered
Why did the Bucks waive Damian Lillard?
To free cap space for Myles Turner’s $107M deal, stretching Lillard’s $113M contract over five years due to his Achilles injury and $63.2M 2025-26 salary.
What is Myles Turner’s contract with the Bucks?
A four-year, $107 million deal with a player option for 2028-29 and a 15% trade kicker.
Why did Turner leave the Pacers?
Indiana’s low-ball offer, driven by luxury tax concerns and Haliburton’s injury, prompted Turner to sign with Milwaukee.
What is Lillard’s next step?
He’ll rehab his Achilles and likely become a top free agent in 2026, with interest from teams like the Miami Heat.
How does Turner fit with the Bucks?
His rim protection, 39.6% three-point shooting, and synergy with Antetokounmpo bolster Milwaukee’s frontcourt for a playoff push.
A High-Risk, High-Reward Gamble
The Milwaukee Bucks’ decision to waive Damian Lillard and sign Myles Turner on July 1, 2025, marks a stunning pivot to retool around Giannis Antetokounmpo. Turner’s defensive and shooting skills address a critical need, but losing Lillard, even injured, leaves a playmaking void. The move, driven by cap constraints and strategic vision, has polarized fans and analysts, with India’s NBA audience closely following the drama. As the Bucks aim for a 2025-26 playoff run, Turner’s integration and Antetokounmpo’s commitment will determine if this bold gamble pays off.
