Bucks Make Bold Move: Waiving Damian Lillard to Sign Myles Turner – What This Means for the Team

The Milwaukee Bucks recently made a significant change in their roster. They waived guard Damian Lillard to create room for a new signing: center Myles Turner. This decision came after Lillard faced a tough situation, suffering a torn Achilles tendon that sidelined him for most of the coming season.

Lillard had a hefty contract, slated to earn $113 million over two years. By waiving him, the Bucks will spread out this financial obligation over five seasons, allowing them to make necessary roster adjustments.

General manager Jon Horst has been known for bold moves aimed at keeping star player Giannis Antetokounmpo in a strong position to compete. Lillard’s injury posed a significant challenge for the team’s chances in the Eastern Conference next season, as they aim for a top playoff spot.

Bringing Turner into the mix could shift Milwaukee’s fortunes. At 29, he closely mirrors Brook Lopez’s playing style—shooting threes effectively and protecting the rim. In fact, Turner averages an impressive 39.3% shooting on three-pointers while blocking about two shots per game. This move not only strengthens the Bucks’ lineup but also allows them to adjust their roster to meet the challenges posed by playoff competitors, especially after the Indiana Pacers eliminated them in the first round for the past two seasons.

Cap Space Strategy

To make room for Turner, the Bucks plan to waive Lillard and also make additional strategic signings. They’ll sign Taurean Prince at minimum salary, while hoping to secure Gary Trent Jr. and Kevin Porter Jr. using their remaining exceptions. Currently, Milwaukee has $19.6 million in cap space, and they aim for around $24 million, likely by letting go of Pat Connaughton’s $9.3 million contract.

What’s Next for Lillard?

Interestingly, Lillard seems excited about this new path. Without the financial constraints typically faced by All-Star players, he is free to choose a contending team that fits his goals. He has a significant sum—$54.1 million for this season alone—so potential new teams will need to consider salary offsets in their calculations.

With several contending teams reaching out to Lillard, he now faces a choice: sign with a team immediately and rehabilitate there, or wait until next summer to reassess his options. This flexibility is a rarity in professional sports, especially for someone with Lillard’s talent and status.

Lillard’s journey through the Bucks has been complex, filled with frustrations on and off the court. Now, with newfound freedom, he can chase a championship dream without the usual restrictions.

These moves indicate a shift in the NBA landscape as teams seek to build competitive rosters while also managing salary caps effectively. The Bucks are looking to enhance their chances, and Lillard’s situation highlights the dynamic nature of player movement in the league.

For more on the evolving roster movements and financial strategies in the NBA, check out ESPN’s coverage.

Source link

Indiana Pacers, Milwaukee Bucks, Fantasy Basketball, NBA