Milwaukee Bucks general manager Jon Horst addressed the team’s decision to waive Damian Lillard, describing it as a necessary move to maximize Giannis Antetokounmpo’s prime while securing elite production for the next several years.
Speaking to The Athletic, Horst emphasized that choosing immediate flexibility and signing Myles Turner outweighed the burden of Lillard’s remaining contract. “We looked at the opportunity to acquire a highly productive, elite free agent, who is in the prime of his career, and who is an incredible fit next to Giannis, as an opportunity for these next two seasons in particular,” Horst said.
Lillard, who tore his Achilles during the playoffs, was set to earn $112.6 million over the next two years. By waiving and stretching his deal over five seasons, the Bucks created crucial cap space to sign Turner to a four-year, $107 million contract.
Horst acknowledged the challenge of carrying Lillard’s salary long-term but called the move “opportunistic” given Turner’s production and fit. “The carry for the following three years… was a really big hurdle and complication that we had to figure out how to deal with now, and the now matters more than anything,” he added.
Milwaukee also waived Vasilije Micic, who agreed to a buyout and eventually signed with EuroLeague debutant Hapoel Tel Aviv, saving additional cap space. Both players were placed on waivers Sunday and are expected to clear by Wednesday.
Horst pointed out that the Bucks gained not only Turner’s four years of elite play but also additional flexibility to pursue other roster upgrades. “There are other moves that we made, other players we’re able to acquire because of this move now that I believe will outweigh the carry,” he said.
Lillard averaged 24.9 points and 7.1 assists in two seasons with Milwaukee, helping the Bucks remain contenders. His injury, however, left his availability for the 2025–26 season in doubt, complicating long-term plans.
