NBAFreeAgency2025: Bucks Sign Myles Turner for $107M, Shockingly Waive Damian Lillard
Milwaukee, WI – July 1, 2025 — In a shocking NBA free agency development, the Milwaukee Bucks have signed Myles Turner to a 4-year, $107 million deal while waiving superstar guard Damian Lillard, sending shockwaves across the basketball world.
The high-stakes move signals a dramatic shift in Milwaukee’s roster strategy, aiming to prioritize defense, size, and long-term financial flexibility over short-term offensive firepower.
Turner In, Lillard Out: A Strategic Shakeup
Myles Turner, formerly with the Indiana Pacers, brings elite shot-blocking, perimeter defense, and floor spacing — all assets the Bucks were eager to add to complement franchise centerpiece Giannis Antetokounmpo. At 28, Turner is still in his prime and is widely considered one of the NBA’s best two-way big men.
Meanwhile, the release of Damian Lillard — who was acquired less than a year ago in a blockbuster trade — marks a stunning end to a brief and turbulent chapter in Milwaukee. While Lillard delivered highlight-reel performances throughout the 2024 season, the pairing with Giannis never fully clicked during the playoffs, and his $60+ million annual salary proved to be a financial anchor.
According to league insiders, the Bucks' front office made the move to restructure the roster around youth, defense, and cap flexibility.
A New Identity in Milwaukee
The addition of Turner gives the Bucks a rim-protecting center who can stretch the floor and fit seamlessly alongside Giannis. This frontcourt duo could become one of the most fearsome in the NBA, combining elite interior defense with fast-break dominance.
Turner averaged 15.8 points, 7.5 rebounds, and 2.2 blocks per game last season, while hitting nearly 38% from beyond the arc — rare efficiency for a center.
Coach Adrian Griffin now has the opportunity to reinvent the Bucks' identity into a more balanced, defensively-minded squad capable of adapting to today’s fast-paced, switch-heavy NBA landscape.
What Went Wrong With Lillard?
Damian Lillard was brought to Milwaukee in hopes of forming an unstoppable superstar duo with Antetokounmpo. While flashes of brilliance were evident, chemistry issues, a lack of depth, and injuries derailed the Bucks’ 2024 postseason hopes. With Lillard owed over $120 million over the next two seasons, the team faced a difficult choice.
Bucks GM Jon Horst issued a brief statement:
“We’re incredibly grateful to Damian for his professionalism and contributions, but ultimately, this move was about the future of our franchise. We wish him the absolute best.”
Lillard now enters free agency as one of the most accomplished guards available — and perhaps the most motivated.
What’s Next for the Bucks?
With Turner locked in, Milwaukee is expected to build around Giannis, Turner, Khris Middleton, and a supporting cast of younger players and shooters. They’re reportedly eyeing additional free agents to reinforce the backcourt and bench.
NBA analysts believe this gamble could go either way — but if Turner delivers and Giannis remains healthy, the Bucks could re-emerge as true contenders in the East.
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