Bucks Release Lillard and Micic to Sign Myles Turner

In a significant roster overhaul, the Milwaukee Bucks have officially announced the waiving of seasoned point guards Damian Lillard and Vasilije Micic, as detailed in the NBA’s transaction records. This strategic move paves the way for the Bucks to finalize a lucrative four-year agreement worth $107 million with former Indiana Pacers center Myles Turner.

As reported by hoopswire.com, both Lillard and Micic will become free agents once they clear waivers on Wednesday, allowing them to explore new opportunities in the league. The decision to part ways with these players had been anticipated for several days as the Bucks aimed to enhance their salary cap flexibility.

One notable aspect of Lillard’s release is the financial strategy involved. With a remaining salary of $112.6 million, the Bucks will utilize the stretch provision, allowing them to extend this amount over the next five seasons. This move is expected to provide immediate financial relief and facilitate a more effective restructuring of the team’s roster.

Lillard, an accomplished nine-time All-Star, is currently in the recovery phase from a significant Achilles injury he suffered during the playoffs in April. His prognosis suggests that he may miss the entirety of the 2025–26 season. Despite this setback, he has reportedly attracted interest from multiple teams, although sources indicate that he is not rushing into signing a new contract.

Micic, who had joined the Bucks just last month through a trade with the Charlotte Hornets, is also set to enter free agency. The deal that brought him to Milwaukee involved sending Pat Connaughton and two second-round draft picks to Charlotte. However, his release was not unexpected; reports suggest that both parties mutually agreed on a buyout, thus allowing Micic to seek new opportunities elsewhere.

The Bucks’ decision to release these players is indicative of a broader strategy aimed at reshaping the roster to better align with their championship aspirations. The addition of Turner, a skilled center known for his defensive prowess and rebounding capabilities, is a clear signal of the Bucks’ intentions to bolster their frontcourt in anticipation of the upcoming season.

This roster shift marks a pivotal moment for Milwaukee, which is looking to recalibrate after a challenging playoff run. By creating room in their salary cap and acquiring a player of Turner’s caliber, the Bucks are signaling their commitment to building a competitive team that can contend for a title.

As the free agency period unfolds, all eyes will be on Lillard and Micic as they navigate their next steps, while Bucks fans remain eager to see how the integration of Turner will impact the team’s dynamics moving forward.