The 2025 NBA free agency period started with a bang, as the Milwaukee Bucks made a surprising move by signing Myles Turner and waiving Damian Lillard. This bold decision has sent shockwaves through the league, affecting teams, players, and fans. Let’s break down what these moves mean for the Bucks, the Indiana Pacers, and the rest of the NBA in simple terms, exploring the ripple effects and what’s next for both teams.
Why Did the Bucks Make This Move?
The Bucks’ decision to sign Myles Turner to a four-year, $107 million contract and waive Damian Lillard, stretching his $113 million contract over five years, is a game-changer. This move shows Milwaukee’s focus on staying competitive around their star player, Giannis Antetokounmpo, while addressing roster and salary challenges.
Bucks’ Plan to Stay Competitive
The Bucks wanted to keep Giannis Antetokounmpo happy, as he’s made it clear he wants to win more championships. With Lillard sidelined by a serious Achilles injury and expected to miss most or all of the 2025-26 season, the Bucks needed a new strategy. Turner, a talented center, brings skills that complement Giannis, helping the team stay strong in the Eastern Conference.
Financial Strategy Behind the Move
To sign Turner, the Bucks had to get creative with their salary cap. Waiving Lillard and spreading his $113 million over five years freed up space. They also traded Pat Connaughton and draft picks to the Charlotte Hornets for Vasilije Micic, further managing their budget. This allowed them to sign Turner without losing future draft assets.
Who is Myles Turner?
Myles Turner, a 29-year-old center, spent 10 seasons with the Indiana Pacers before joining the Bucks. He’s known for his ability to protect the rim and shoot three-pointers, making him a valuable two-way player.
Turner’s Key Skills
- Defense: Turner is a top defender, blocking shots and making it tough for opponents to score near the basket. Last season, he was one of only four players with at least 100 blocks, 100 three-pointers, and 50 steals.
- Shooting: He shot 39.6% from three-point range on 5.5 attempts per game, a career high, adding spacing to the Bucks’ offense.
- Fit with Giannis: Turner’s skills pair well with Giannis, who thrives with a center who can stretch the floor and defend the paint.
Comparison to Brook Lopez
Turner is seen as a younger version of Brook Lopez, who signed with the LA Clippers. Like Lopez, Turner can shoot from deep and protect the rim, but he’s more mobile, allowing the Bucks to play a more versatile defense.
Why Did the Pacers Let Turner Go?
The Indiana Pacers’ decision to let Turner walk was surprising, especially after their NBA Finals run in 2025. Several factors played a role in this choice.
Avoiding the Luxury Tax
The Pacers haven’t paid the luxury tax in 20 years, and re-signing Turner would have pushed them over the limit. With Tyrese Haliburton’s Achilles injury changing their outlook for the 2025-26 season, they chose to save money and focus on other players like Bennedict Mathurin and Aaron Nesmith.
Impact on the Pacers’ Roster
Without Turner, the Pacers lack a starting-caliber center, which could weaken their frontcourt. Their defensive efficiency, which was top-eight last season with Turner, may take a hit. The team will need to rely on younger players or find a replacement to stay competitive in the East.
What Happens to Damian Lillard?
Damian Lillard, a nine-time All-Star, is now a free agent after the Bucks waived him. His Achilles injury means he’ll likely miss the 2025-26 season, but he’s in a unique position.
Lillard’s Future Options
- Rehab and Recovery: Lillard can focus on rehabbing in Portland, where he’s comfortable, and choose his next team without financial pressure, as he’ll still collect his $113 million from the Bucks.
- Potential Teams: Teams like the Miami Heat, who were interested in Lillard two years ago, may pursue him for the 2026-27 season. His ability to pick a contender gives him a rare opportunity for a player of his caliber.
Impact on the Bucks
Lillard’s departure leaves a gap at point guard. Last season, he averaged 24.9 points and 7.1 assists, and replacing that production will be tough. The Bucks are relying on Kevin Porter Jr., who showed promise last season, and other signings like Gary Trent Jr. to fill the void.
How Does This Affect the Eastern Conference?
The Bucks’ moves shake up the Eastern Conference, where they’ve struggled in recent playoffs. Here’s how it impacts the race.
Bucks’ Outlook
With Turner, the Bucks aim to return to contender status. Giannis will likely take on more playmaking duties, as he did late last season when Lillard was out. However, without a true replacement for Lillard’s scoring and passing, the Bucks may not be a top-tier team yet. They still have room to sign players like Deandre Ayton using their midlevel exception.
Pacers’ Challenges
The Pacers, who eliminated the Bucks in the playoffs the last two years, now face uncertainty. Losing Turner weakens their defense and frontcourt, and Haliburton’s injury adds more questions. They’ll need to make smart moves to stay in the playoff hunt.
Other Teams
Teams like the Miami Heat and Los Angeles Lakers could benefit from Lillard’s availability in the future. The Heat, in particular, are looking for a star to pair with their core, and Lillard could be a perfect fit in 2026-27.
Key Moves by the Bucks in 2025 Free Agency
| Player | Action | Contract Details |
|---|---|---|
| Myles Turner | Signed | 4 years, $107M, player option in 2028-29, 15% trade kicker |
| Damian Lillard | Waived | $113M stretched over 5 years |
| Pat Connaughton | Traded | To Charlotte for Vasilije Micic, with 2031 and 2032 second-round picks |
| Jericho Sims | Re-signed | 2 years, player option in second year |
| Gary Harris | Signed | 2 years, player option in second year |
| Gary Trent Jr. | Signed | Room exception |
| Kevin Porter Jr. | Signed | Room exception |
| Taurean Prince | Signed | Minimum exception |
What’s Next for the Bucks and Pacers?
The Bucks are betting on Turner to keep them competitive while Giannis is in his prime. They’ll need to find a point guard and add depth to make a deep playoff run. The Pacers, meanwhile, must address their center position and adjust to Haliburton’s absence. Both teams face challenges, but the Bucks’ bold moves show they’re all-in on winning now.
Conclusion
The Myles Turner-Damian Lillard shocker is one of the biggest stories of the 2025 NBA free agency. The Bucks’ decision to sign Turner and waive Lillard changes the landscape of the Eastern Conference, giving Milwaukee a new look while leaving the Pacers searching for answers. As Giannis monitors the Bucks’ moves, and Lillard plans his next step, the NBA is buzzing with excitement about what’s next. These moves highlight the high stakes of free agency and how one decision can reshape a team’s future.
FAQ
Why did the Bucks waive Damian Lillard?
The Bucks waived Lillard to free up salary cap space to sign Myles Turner. Lillard’s Achilles injury means he’ll likely miss the 2025-26 season, and stretching his $113 million contract over five years helped Milwaukee manage their budget.
What does Myles Turner bring to the Bucks?
Turner is a skilled center who can block shots, shoot three-pointers, and defend the paint. His abilities fit well with Giannis Antetokounmpo, making the Bucks a stronger team on both ends of the court.
How will the Pacers replace Myles Turner?
The Pacers will need to find a new starting center, either through free agency, trades, or developing younger players. Without Turner, their defense and frontcourt depth are weaker, which could hurt their playoff chances.
Where will Damian Lillard play next?
Lillard, now a free agent, is expected to rehab his Achilles injury in Portland and choose a new team, possibly for the 2026-27 season. Teams like the Miami Heat are rumored to be interested.
How does this affect Giannis Antetokounmpo’s future?
Giannis has said he wants to win more championships, and the Bucks’ moves show they’re trying to build a contender around him. However, if the team doesn’t improve, he may consider his options, as he has a player option for the 2027-28 season.
