Sports

Milwaukee Bucks Waive Damian Lillard, Sign Myles Turner in Blockbuster Free‑Agency Move

The Milwaukee Bucks stretch‑waived Damian Lillard to clear cap space and signed Myles Turner to a 4‑year, $107M deal, upsetting Giannis Antetokounmpo and shaking up the Pacers’ roster

uristocrat

Jul 1, 2025 — 2 min read

Key Takeaways

📅 July 1, 2025: Milwaukee Bucks waived All-Star guard Damian Lillard, stretching the remaining ~$113M on his deal over five years.
💼 Bucks sign former Pacers center Myles Turner to a 4‑year, $107M contract with a player option and 15% trade kicker.
⭐ Giannis Antetokounmpo reportedly upset by Lillard's departure but welcomes Turner’s defense-first skillset.
🧠 The Pacers let Turner walk due to luxury tax concerns, despite his desire to stay and deep playoff run.
🔄 Lillard becomes an unrestricted free agent recovering from Achilles surgery—can choose his next team.

🏀 What This Means

For the Bucks

Immediate cap relief and stronger frontcourt defense via Turner.
Stretching Lillard’s $113M frees space but carries long-term cost.
Strategic pivot aimed at satisfying Giannis and retooling after playoff loss.

For the Pacers

Losing Turner—a 10-year franchise star and Finals-caliber defender—weakens their backcourt mix, especially with injury to Tyrese Haliburton.
Return on the move could be draft assets and internal development.

For Lillard

Gains freedom to rehab at home and choose his next destination (Portland, Miami among options).
Despite injury, holds appeal as a high-impact free agent for contenders.

⚖️ Fan & Expert Reaction

ESPN’s Brian Windhorst calls the move "mortgaging your mortgage to buy a sports car"—a risky, expensive gamble.
Debate around long-term financial implications versus short-term competitiveness.