Introduction: A Seismic Shift in Milwaukee
In a move that has sent shockwaves through the NBA, the Milwaukee Bucks have made the unprecedented decision to waive Damian Lillard, one of the league’s premier superstars, to facilitate the acquisition of Myles Turner from the Indiana Pacers. This blockbuster transaction, reported on July 1, 2025, by ESPN’s Shams Charania, marks a pivotal moment for the Bucks’ roster and raises questions about the future of both Lillard and the franchise. The decision to stretch Damian Lillard’s contract over five years while bringing in Turner has sparked intense debate among fans and analysts alike. This blog post explores the details of this trade, Lillard’s tenure in Milwaukee, his stats and injury challenges, and what lies ahead for the Bucks and their revamped depth chart.
The Trade: Damian Lillard Waived, Myles Turner Joins the Bucks
The Milwaukee Bucks executed a stunning maneuver by waiving Damian Lillard and stretching the remaining $113 million of his Dame Lillard contract over five seasons to create cap space for Myles Turner. According to sources from ESPN, this move allowed the Bucks to sign Turner to a four-year, $107 million deal without sacrificing future draft assets. The trade represents a bold strategic shift for Milwaukee, prioritizing defensive versatility and rim protection over Lillard’s offensive firepower.
Myles Turner, a longtime cornerstone of the Indiana Pacers, brings elite shot-blocking and three-point shooting to the Bucks’ roster. His arrival addresses a critical need for Milwaukee, whose defense struggled in recent playoff runs. The Myles Turner trade marks the end of Lillard’s two-year stint with the Bucks, a period marked by high expectations, playoff disappointments, and a devastating Damian Lillard injury.
Damian Lillard’s Journey with the Milwaukee Bucks
From Portland to Milwaukee: High Hopes for Dame
Damian Lillard, often referred to as Dame or Dame Time, arrived in Milwaukee in 2023 via a blockbuster trade with the Portland Trail Blazers. The move was heralded as a game-changer, pairing Lillard’s clutch scoring with Giannis Antetokounmpo’s dominance. Fans and analysts expected the duo to elevate the Bucks to championship contention, building on their 2021 NBA title.
However, Lillard’s tenure in Milwaukee fell short of expectations. Despite flashes of brilliance, the Bucks faced back-to-back first-round playoff exits, including losses to the Pacers. These disappointments, coupled with Lillard’s recent Dame Lillard injury, a torn Achilles, cast a shadow over his time with the team. The decision to waive Lillard has been described as a “stunning turn of events” by Bleacher Report, reflecting the unexpected nature of this roster shake-up.
Damian Lillard’s Stats in Milwaukee
Damian Lillard’s stats during his Bucks tenure showcased his offensive prowess, though injuries limited his impact. In the 2023-24 season, Lillard averaged 24.3 points, 7.0 assists, and 4.4 rebounds per game, shooting 42.4% from the field and 35.4% from three-point range. His ability to deliver in clutch moments remained a hallmark, but his defensive limitations and inconsistent playoff performances drew scrutiny.
In the 2024-25 season, before his Damian Lillard injury, Lillard posted similar numbers, averaging 25.7 points and 6.8 assists over 22 games. However, the torn Achilles sidelined him, forcing the Bucks to rely on other players in their playoff campaign. These Dame Lillard stats highlight his value as a scorer but also underscore the challenges of integrating him into Milwaukee’s system alongside Giannis.
The Injury That Changed Everything
The Damian Lillard injury, a torn Achilles suffered in the 2024-25 season, proved to be a turning point. As reported by YoungNBA on X, Lillard’s injury was one of three Achilles injuries in the NBA within two months, alongside Jayson Tatum and Tyrese Haliburton. This devastating injury sidelined Lillard for the remainder of the season and raised concerns about his long-term durability at age 35.
The Dame Lillard injury not only impacted his performance but also influenced the Bucks’ decision to part ways. With Lillard facing a lengthy rehabilitation process, Milwaukee opted to prioritize roster flexibility and defensive upgrades, leading to the Damian Lillard waived decision. The move, while financially complex, allows the Bucks to spread the $113 million remaining on Lillard’s contract over five years, easing the salary cap burden.
Myles Turner: The Bucks’ New Defensive Anchor
Why Myles Turner?
The acquisition of Myles Turner addresses a glaring weakness in the Bucks’ roster: interior defense. Turner, a two-time NBA blocks leader, averaged 1.9 blocks and 7.1 rebounds per game in his final season with the Pacers. His ability to stretch the floor, shooting 35.8% from three, complements Giannis Antetokounmpo’s paint-dominated style.
The Myles Turner contract, a four-year, $107 million deal, positions him as a cornerstone of the Bucks’ future. His defensive versatility and rim protection make him an ideal fit alongside Giannis, whose Giannis contract (a three-year, $175.3 million extension signed in 2023) ensures Milwaukee’s commitment to contending for titles.
Impact on the Bucks’ Depth Chart
The Bucks depth chart undergoes a significant transformation with Turner’s arrival. Here’s a projected lineup following the Myles Turner Bucks acquisition:
- Point Guard: Dennis Schröder / AJ Green
- Shooting Guard: Khris Middleton / Andre Jackson Jr.
- Small Forward: Giannis Antetokounmpo / Pat Connaughton
- Power Forward: Bobby Portis / Taurean Prince
- Center: Myles Turner / Brook Lopez
Turner’s presence allows Brook Lopez to shift to a bench role, enhancing the Bucks’ second-unit defense. The Bucks roster now boasts a balanced mix of offensive firepower and defensive tenacity, positioning them as contenders in the Eastern Conference.
The Financial Mechanics: Stretching Lillard’s Contract
The decision to waive and stretch Damian Lillard’s contract is a masterclass in salary cap management. As explained by nbainsidergoat on X, the Bucks will pay Lillard $113 million over five years, reducing his annual cap hit to approximately $22.6 million. This creative financial strategy, detailed in ESPN’s reporting, allowed Milwaukee to sign Myles Turner without trading away draft picks, preserving future flexibility.
While the move frees up cap space, it also highlights the Bucks’ willingness to move on from Lillard, whose high salary and injury concerns posed risks. The Dame Lillard contract restructuring ensures Milwaukee remains competitive while navigating the NBA’s stringent salary cap rules.
Reaction and Analysis: What’s Next for Damian Lillard?
Fan and Analyst Reactions
The Damian Lillard waived news sparked a firestorm of reactions on X. @ReneePwash called the sequence of events “wild,” noting Lillard’s journey from Portland to Milwaukee, only to face injury and release. @BuiltDifferentP described Lillard’s exit as part of an “ugly divorce,” reflecting the emotional weight of his departure.
Analysts on Bleacher Report have debated the Bucks’ decision, with some praising the acquisition of Myles Turner as a step toward championship contention, while others question whether waiving a superstar like Lillard was premature. The consensus is that Milwaukee is doubling down on Giannis as the centerpiece, with Turner providing the defensive backbone needed for a deep playoff run.
Lillard’s Future as a Free Agent
As a free agent, Damian Lillard faces an uncertain future. His Dame Lillard injury complicates his marketability, as teams may hesitate to sign a 35-year-old recovering from a torn Achilles. However, Lillard’s pedigree as a clutch performer and leader makes him an attractive option for contenders seeking veteran leadership.
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Potential destinations include teams like the Los Angeles Lakers, Miami Heat, or even a return to Portland, though the latter seems unlikely given the Trail Blazers’ rebuilding phase. Lillard’s next move will depend on his recovery timeline and willingness to accept a reduced role or salary.
The Bigger Picture: Bucks and Pacers in Transition
Bucks News: A New Era in Milwaukee
The Bucks news surrounding the Damian Lillard trade and Myles Turner Bucks acquisition signals a new chapter for the franchise. With Giannis Antetokounmpo locked in long-term, Milwaukee is building around his strengths, emphasizing defense and versatility. The Bucks roster now features a blend of youth and experience, with Turner and Khris Middleton providing stability alongside rising stars like Andre Jackson Jr.
The Bucks’ decision to prioritize Turner over Lillard reflects a strategic pivot toward sustainability. By avoiding draft pick losses, Milwaukee retains the flexibility to make additional moves, potentially targeting a playmaking guard to replace Lillard’s production.
Pacers News: Life After Turner
For the Indiana Pacers, the Myles Turner trade marks the end of an era. Turner, a fixture in Indianapolis since 2015, leaves a legacy as one of the NBA’s premier defensive bigs. The Pacers news cycle has focused on how the team will replace Turner’s production, with young centers like Isaiah Jackson and James Wiseman expected to step up.
The Pacers’ decision to part ways with Turner suggests a focus on youth and cap flexibility. With Tyrese Haliburton leading the charge, Indiana aims to build a roster capable of competing in the Eastern Conference’s crowded playoff race.
Comparing Lillard and Turner: A Statistical Breakdown
To understand the Bucks’ rationale, let’s compare Damian Lillard’s stats and Myles Turner’s contributions:
| Player | PPG | RPG | APG | BPG | FG% | 3P% |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Damian Lillard (2024-25) | 25.7 | 4.4 | 6.8 | 0.2 | 42.4% | 35.4% |
| Myles Turner (2024-25) | 17.0 | 7.1 | 1.3 | 1.9 | 50.5% | 35.8% |
While Lillard offers elite scoring and playmaking, Turner’s defensive impact and efficiency make him a better fit for Milwaukee’s current needs. The Bucks’ shift toward a defense-first identity aligns with the NBA’s evolving emphasis on versatility.
FAQs
Why was Damian Lillard waived by the Bucks?
The Bucks waived Damian Lillard to create cap space for Myles Turner’s four-year, $107 million contract. By stretching Lillard’s $113 million contract over five years, Milwaukee avoided trading draft picks while addressing defensive weaknesses.
What is the status of Damian Lillard’s injury?
Damian Lillard suffered a torn Achilles in the 2024-25 season, sidelining him for the remainder of the year. He is currently rehabilitating, with an uncertain timeline for his return to full strength.
How does Myles Turner fit into the Bucks’ roster?
Myles Turner bolsters the Bucks roster with elite rim protection and three-point shooting. His defensive versatility complements Giannis Antetokounmpo, allowing Brook Lopez to shift to a bench role.
What are the details of Damian Lillard’s contract?
Damian Lillard’s contract with the Bucks was worth $113 million over two years. After being waived, the contract was stretched over five years, reducing his annual cap hit to approximately $22.6 million.
What’s next for the Indiana Pacers after the Myles Turner trade?
The Pacers news indicates a focus on youth, with players like Isaiah Jackson and James Wiseman expected to fill Myles Turner’s role. The team aims to build around Tyrese Haliburton for future playoff pushes.
Conclusion: A Bold Move for the Bucks’ Future
The Milwaukee Bucks’ decision to waive Damian Lillard and acquire Myles Turner represents a calculated gamble. By prioritizing defense and cap flexibility, Milwaukee is positioning itself for sustained success around Giannis Antetokounmpo. While Lillard’s departure marks the end of a high-profile experiment, his legacy as one of the NBA’s greatest clutch performers remains intact.
For Dame Lillard, the road ahead is uncertain but filled with opportunity. As he recovers from his Dame Lillard injury, the free-agent market awaits, offering a chance to redefine his career. Meanwhile, the Bucks and Pacers embark on new chapters, with Myles Turner anchoring Milwaukee’s defense and Indiana rebuilding for the future.
Stay tuned for more NBA news, Bucks news, and Pacers news as the 2025-26 season approaches. The fallout from this trade will shape the Eastern Conference for years to come.
Reference
- ESPN: Bucks Waive Damian Lillard, Sign Myles Turner
- Bleacher Report: Analyzing the Bucks’ Roster Shake-Up
- NBA.com: Myles Turner’s Defensive Impact
- CBS Sports: Damian Lillard’s Free Agency Outlook
- Yahoo Sports: Giannis Antetokounmpo’s Contract Details
