The Milwaukee Bucks front office has been tasked with retooling the roster amid uncertainty about the future of franchise player Giannis Antetokounmpo. In a series of surprising moves, the team waived All-Star guard Damian Lillard, acquired center Myles Turner on a four-year, $107 million deal from the Indiana Pacers, and signed Gary Harris on a two-year contract. These decisions are part of a larger strategy to rebuild the roster for the future, which includes addressing the potential relocation of Giannis Antetokounmpo.
Lillard, who was acquired in a blockbuster trade during the 2023 season from the Portland Trail Blazers, is still owed $113 million over the next five years. His release comes after a shortened 2024-25 season, which was cut short due to a torn Achilles tendon. He is expected to continue his rehabilitation in Portland, where he spent the first 11 seasons of his NBA career.
The acquisition of Myles Turner, a two-time NBA blocks leader with over 700 3-pointers and 1,400 blocks, signals the Bucks’ commitment to strengthening their interior defense. This move comes as Brooks Lopez, previously the team’s primary center, left for a deal with the Los Angeles Clippers. Turner’s arrival is also a result of failed negotiations with the Pacers, which led to the Bucks securing his services.
Meanwhile, Harris brings experience to the bench, having played for both the Denver Nuggets and the Orlando Magic. The franchise is entering a new era with a focus on developing young talent and building a competitive team for the coming seasons.