Bucks Waive Damian Lillard, Sign Myles Turner to $107M Deal

The Milwaukee Bucks have made a significant roster change by waiving nine-time All-Star Damian Lillard, who is expected to miss the next season due to a torn Achilles, and stretching his remaining $113 million salary over five years. This move allowed the Bucks to sign former Indiana Pacer Myles Turner to a four-year, $107 million contract, adding a defensive presence and shooting range to replace Brook Lopez, who left for the Clippers. While the trade initially brought high expectations, waiving Lillard is seen by some as a failure given the assets spent to acquire him and has reportedly upset star player Giannis Antetokounmpo. Turner, a 10-year veteran with the Pacers and a leader on that team, is considered a downgrade in shooting but a valuable defensive asset for Milwaukee. The Pacers, facing key injuries, are likely to use the upcoming season to rebuild with less costly players. Overall, the Bucks' decision reflects a strategic pivot focused on keeping Antetokounmpo happy and managing salary cap challenges despite risks related to Lillard's injury recovery.