Milwaukee Bucks Offseason Moves
LAS VEGAS – In an offseason filled with unexpected twists, the Milwaukee Bucks made waves in the NBA by parting ways with veteran guard Damian Lillard. The nine-time All-Star is anticipated to spend a significant portion of the 2025-26 season on the sidelines as he recovers from a torn Achilles tendon. The Bucks decided to waive Lillard, resulting in a strategic move to stretch the nearly $113 million remaining on his contract over the next five years, which will now account for about $22.5 million in dead money annually against their salary cap.
Strategic Decisions and Roster Changes
This decision, while risky, allowed Milwaukee to clear the necessary cap space to successfully bring aboard Myles Turner, a coveted free agent, signing him to a four-year deal worth $108.9 million. Bucks’ general manager Jon Horst emphasized that the thought process behind this bold maneuver was driven by the imperative to maximize the prime of their star player, Giannis Antetokounmpo, and to seize current championship opportunities.
In a candid interview during this week’s NBA Summer League, Horst reflected on the offseason’s major shifts and shared insights into the strategic decisions that have shaped the team’s roster. The Bucks’ offseason has largely consisted of retaining six players from last year while only adding Turner and two others from outside the organization, though the shake-up remains highly significant.
Focus on Competitive Edge
Horst mentioned the importance of improving the team’s competitive edge for the upcoming season against the potential drawbacks of introducing dead money into their financial framework. He described his feelings about having to address crucial hurdles that could shape the team’s immediate future, stating,
“Maximizing Giannis’ prime, our opportunities to win, I feel like that’s our responsibility always.”
The decision to pursue Turner stemmed from a strategy Horst and his team were already contemplating long before the offseason began. Despite the unforeseen difficulties at the conclusion of the last season, they recognized that Lillard’s situation created a rare opportunity to secure a skilled player in the prime of his career, one whose strengths aligned with Giannis’s playstyle.
Enhancing Team Dynamics
Myles Turner is not only expected to enhance the Bucks’ play on the court but also modernize their approach, providing versatility in offense and defense. Horst expressed confidence in Turner being able to improve the team’s pick-and-roll effectiveness and rim protection. Additionally, with a focus on Antetokounmpo’s evolving role as a point forward under head coach Doc Rivers, the Bucks aim to build around his newfound ability to create shots for teammates.
Looking Ahead
Looking ahead, Horst remains confident that the team has taken essential steps and acknowledged that while they have made substantial moves, the season’s success will ultimately reveal if they were sufficient. With the Eastern Conference becoming increasingly competitive, he stated that the Bucks remain focused on maximizing their potential this season, while also planning for evaluations during training camp and the upcoming trade deadline.
As he heads into another season, Horst’s determination and confidence reflect a commitment to positioning the Bucks as serious contenders in the league. He reiterated,
“We do everything we can to get better,”
setting the tone for a challenging yet promising season ahead for the franchise.
