The Milwaukee Bucks just turned NBA free agency on its head with two blockbuster decisions that have fans, analysts, and rival teams scrambling to make sense of it all. The moves mark a dramatic shift in strategy for a franchise still chasing another championship while trying to keep its superstar, Giannis Antetokounmpo, committed for the long haul.
Here’s a full breakdown of the Bucks’ surprising offseason moves—and what they mean for the future of the team.
Table of Contents
1. Damian Lillard Waived — Contract Stretched for Cap Relief
What Happened?
The Bucks waived 13-time All-Star Damian Lillard and stretched the remaining $113 million on his contract over multiple seasons. This frees up significant salary cap space, allowing Milwaukee to reshape its roster.
Why It’s Shocking
Lillard was seen as the final piece to push the Bucks back to title contention when he arrived in 2022 via a high-profile trade from Portland. But after just two seasons, plagued by injuries and underwhelming playoff results, Milwaukee decided to move on.
Key Context
- Age & Injury: Lillard, 35, is recovering from a torn Achilles suffered in the playoffs—a major concern for a player known for his explosiveness.
- Underperformance: Despite high expectations, the Bucks never made it past the first round during his time.
- Strategic Reset: Stretching Lillard’s contract opens new financial flexibility, signaling a pivot toward long-term roster retooling.
2. Bucks Sign Myles Turner to 4-Year, $107 Million Deal
The Deal
Milwaukee moved quickly to fill the void by signing veteran center Myles Turner to a four-year, $107 million contract. Turner had spent his entire 10-year NBA career with the Indiana Pacers before making the switch.
Why It Matters
- Division Rivals: The Bucks not only added a top-tier big man—they took him from a direct Eastern Conference rival.
- Locker Room Impact: Turner was Indiana’s longest-tenured player and a fan favorite. His departure marks the end of an era in Indy and the start of a new chapter in Milwaukee.
Why Myles Turner Fits Milwaukee Perfectly
Elite Rim Protection
Turner is one of the league’s premier shot-blockers. He instantly boosts Milwaukee’s interior defense—an area that declined after the departure of Brook Lopez.
Three-Point Shooting
He stretches the floor with solid range, creating valuable spacing for Giannis to operate. Turner’s shooting helps maintain the Bucks’ status as one of the league’s best perimeter teams.
Seamless Fit with Giannis
Giannis thrives with big men who can shoot and defend without clogging the paint. Turner does both—and at a high level. Their complementary skill sets could form one of the most balanced frontcourt tandems in the NBA.
What These Moves Say About the Bucks’ Strategy
Keeping Giannis Happy
These decisions aren’t just about improving the roster—they’re about keeping the face of the franchise committed. Rumors of Giannis potentially seeking a trade have surfaced in recent seasons. Milwaukee is making it clear: they’re still in win-now mode.
Financial Flexibility & Future Planning
By stretching Lillard’s contract, the Bucks created space not just for Turner, but also for future trades or signings that could support a deeper playoff run.
Looking Ahead: A New Chapter in Milwaukee
The Lillard era ends before it could truly begin, but the Bucks are far from rebuilding. With Giannis in his prime and a renewed roster focus, Milwaukee remains a contender in the Eastern Conference.
What to Expect in 2025–26
- Stronger Defense with Turner anchoring the paint
- Improved Spacing thanks to Turner’s range
- More Flexibility to adjust and add talent during the season
Bottom Line
Milwaukee just made two of the boldest moves of the offseason—and both could prove to be masterstrokes. The decision to move on from Lillard wasn’t easy, but it cleared the path for a more balanced, healthier, and more competitive roster.
The Bucks are betting big on Myles Turner and on a new direction—one that keeps the title window wide open for at least a few more years.
