Bucks Waive Lillard, Sign Turner in Cap Shakeup

The Milwaukee Bucks have waived nine-time All-Star Damian Lillard, stretching his $113 million contract over five years—the largest such move in NBA history—to clear cap space for signing center Myles Turner to a four-year, $107 million deal. Lillard, age 35, suffered a torn Achilles during the playoffs and is expected to miss the entire 2025-26 season, leaving his free agency prospects uncertain. Turner, who is coming off a Finals appearance and his best season as a shooter, joins Milwaukee from the Indiana Pacers to fill the void left by Brook Lopez. Giannis Antetokounmpo is reportedly displeased with Lillard's departure, raising questions about his future with the Bucks after a third straight early playoff exit. The Bucks' aggressive cap moves also enable them to retain or target other key free agents, signaling a commitment to remain contenders. The Pacers lose a long-tenured core player in Turner, further impacting their future plans.