The Milwaukee Bucks stunned the NBA world during the second day of free agency. In a bold and unexpected move, the franchise parted ways with star point guard Damian Lillard and shifted its focus to the future.
The decision sent shockwaves through the league, as the Bucks made a play to acquire Myles Turner, a standout center from the Indiana Pacers. This pivot not only reshapes the roster but also raises questions about the team’s direction and chemistry moving forward.
Milwaukee Bucks Shake Up Roster, Blindsiding Damian Lillard and Stirring Giannis Antetokounmpo
Lillard, who battled back from blood clots in his leg and returned early to help his team in the playoffs, only to suffer a devastating Achilles tear, was waived by the Bucks. The move came as a surprise to many, especially given Lillard’s respected status across the league and his close friendship with Giannis Antetokounmpo. Sports can be unforgiving, and this decision is a prime example of how quickly things can change.
The details of Lillard’s release are unusual. The Bucks will be on the hook for his contract over five seasons, a move that will have lasting financial implications. Meanwhile, the team quickly pivoted, shocking the Indiana Pacers, who were recent NBA finalists, by signing away their star center, Myles Turner.
NBA insider Chris Haynes told NBA TV that Lillard was blindsided by the decision. According to Haynes, Lillard had no advance notice and only found out about the move when everyone else did. This lack of communication is notable, given Lillard’s reputation and his relationship with Antetokounmpo.
“He was surprised..[The Bucks] did not tell Dame that this was coming…I was told that Dame found out about his situation just like everybody else found out.”
– @ChrisBHaynes on Damian Lillard
— SleeperHoops (@Sleeper_Hoops) July 1, 2025
Haynes also pointed out that Lillard may not be too disappointed, as he will have the opportunity to choose his next team, and is reportedly in a good place mentally.
NBA expert Brian Windhorst described the Bucks’ decision as “mortgaging your mortgage to buy a sports car.” For the next five years, Lillard will appear on the Bucks’ cap sheet for about $23 million per year. The team will also be paying Turner around $26 million per year. That’s a combined $50 million tied up in two players, which puts added pressure on the Bucks to keep Antetokounmpo happy and prevent him from demanding a trade.
“This is mortgaging your mortgage to buy a sports car.”@WindhorstESPN weighs in on the Bucks waiving Damian Lillard to acquire Myles Turner pic.twitter.com/2hMjzCJUag
— First Take (@FirstTake) July 1, 2025
This is a risky call for the Bucks, who might have been expected to consult Antetokounmpo before making such a significant move. According to reports from Haynes, Antetokounmpo is not pleased with the decision to waive Lillard. His reaction on social media, where he posted an image with the caption “I don’t know what’s going on right now, man,” suggests he is questioning his future with the team.
Mood pic.twitter.com/Ar2nvAcfXE
— Giannis Antetokounmpo (@Giannis_An34) July 1, 2025
On paper, Turner is an excellent addition for Milwaukee. He is one of the league’s more underrated centers and was a key contributor during the Pacers’ recent Finals run. Turner provides rim protection and shooting, which should help form a formidable frontcourt alongside Antetokounmpo. Losing Turner is a significant blow for Indiana, especially after their deep playoff run.
However, the Bucks now face challenges in building around Antetokounmpo and Turner, given their tight salary cap situation and limited remaining assets. All eyes are on Antetokounmpo, who has much to consider about his future with the franchise after these seismic decisions.
