Bucks Shock NBA by Waiving Damian Lillard to Sign Myles Turner in Blockbuster Free Agency Move
In one of the most stunning decisions of the 2025 NBA offseason, the Milwaukee Bucks have officially waived All-Star guard Damian Lillard, opting to sign veteran center Myles Turner in a bold move to reshape their roster.
Lillard, 34, is currently rehabbing from a torn Achilles tendon suffered late in the 2024–25 season. While the former All-NBA guard was expected to return sometime in the next campaign, the Bucks’ front office prioritized immediate frontcourt reinforcements — and Turner became their top target.
With Brook Lopez’s contract expiring at the end of the season, Milwaukee entered the summer determined to find a long-term answer at center. Turner, known for his elite rim protection, rebounding, and improved three-point shooting, fits that mold. The Bucks are reportedly signing the 28-year-old big man to a three-year deal, adding a defensive anchor to complement their remaining core.
> “It wasn’t an easy decision,” said a Bucks team executive. “Damian is a future Hall of Famer, but given the timeline of his recovery and our need in the frontcourt, we felt we had to make a move that aligns with our championship goals.”
Lillard was acquired in a blockbuster trade from the Portland Trail Blazers in 2023 and had shown flashes of his scoring brilliance alongside Giannis Antetokounmpo. However, injuries limited his availability, and his Achilles tear clouded his future heading into his age-35 season. Releasing him clears significant cap space, allowing the Bucks to make a competitive offer to Turner in a tight free-agent market.
Myles Turner, who spent his first nine seasons with the Indiana Pacers, averaged 15.2 points, 7.8 rebounds, and 2.3 blocks per game in 2024–25. His presence gives Milwaukee a younger, mobile, and floor-spacing center to anchor their defense while supporting Giannis in the paint.
The decision to part ways with Lillard is a gamble — both from a locker room and star-power perspective — but the Bucks appear committed to reshaping their identity after another disappointing postseason exit.
As Turner prepares to take over the starting center role, all eyes will be on how Milwaukee’s new lineup gels, and whether waiving a superstar like Lillard will ultimately help or hinder their championship aspirations.
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