The Milwaukee Bucks waived Damian Lillard, opting to stretch the remaining $113 million on his contract over five years, sources told ESPN’s Shams Charania. This move clears cap space for the Bucks to acquire Myles Turner from the Indiana Pacers.
Lillard’s two-season tenure in Milwaukee ends as he continues to recover from a torn Achilles tendon suffered in the 2025 playoffs. The Bucks structured the buyout to avoid sacrificing future draft picks, maintaining flexibility for upcoming seasons.
Turner signed a four-year, $107 million contract with Milwaukee, including a player option for the 2028-29 season and a 15% trade kicker. The seven-time blocks leader spent his entire career with Indiana before joining the Bucks in free agency.
At 29, Turner averaged 15.6 points, 6.5 rebounds, and 2.0 blocks per game during the 2024-25 season. He also improved his three-point shooting to 39.6%, adding floor spacing to Milwaukee’s frontcourt alongside Giannis Antetokounmpo.
The Pacers declined to match Milwaukee’s offer due to tax concerns following Tyrese Haliburton’s injury, allowing Turner to make the move. The Bucks’ front office, led by GM Jon Horst, collaborated with Turner’s agent to finalize the deal swiftly.
Milwaukee finished the 2024-25 regular season with a 48-34 record, earning the fifth seed in the Eastern Conference. The addition of Turner strengthens their defense and rim protection, addressing a key need after last season’s playoff exit.
Lillard’s release ends a stint marked by strong individual performances but interrupted by injury. He posted 24.9 points and 7.1 assists per game this past season before his Achilles tear cut his playoff run short.
