Sachin Shankar Yadav In order to free up cap space for the signing of free agent center Myles Turner, the Milwaukee Bucks used the NBA’s stretch provision to waive superstar point guard Damian Lillard. Just over two months have passed since Lillard’s devastating Achilles tendon rupture during the 2025 playoffs’ first round, which is predicted to keep him out for the majority, if not the entire, 2025–26 NBA season.
Key Details
Contract & Cap Space: Lillard’s contract had $113 million remaining over two years. The Bucks will distribute the sum over the following five seasons by waiving and extending this contract, bringing the annual cap hit down to roughly $22.5 million. Milwaukee now has the flexibility to sign Myles Turner to a four-year, $107 million contract, making this the biggest waiver-and-stretch in NBA history.
Why the Shift?
This choice was made by the Bucks’ front office, under the direction of general manager Jon Horst, in order to stay competitive during Giannis Antetokounmpo’s best years. Turner, a younger, defensive-minded center who shot almost 40% from three last season and was instrumental in the Pacers’ run to the NBA Finals, was Milwaukee’s top priority after Lillard’s injury and Brook Lopez leaving for the Clippers.
Impact on Giannis: Despite his role in luring Turner to Milwaukee, reports suggest that Giannis was not happy with the decision to waive Lillard. The Bucks are placing a wager that this roster shuffle will please their franchise star and maintain their window for a championship.
Lillard’s Legacy in Milwaukee: Due to injuries and misfortune, Lillard’s 21-month tenure with the Bucks ends without a 50-win season or a playoff series victory. Prior to the injury, he was selected to his ninth All-Star team in 2024–25, averaging 24.9 points and 7.1 assists.
What Comes Next?
For the Bucks, managing the roster in the future will be difficult because Milwaukee will bear Lillard’s extended cap hit until 2030. Turner’s addition, though, attempts to maintain the Bucks’ status as Eastern Conference contenders.
As a free agent, Lillard will concentrate on recovering from his Achilles injury and assessing his options in preparation for a potential 2026–2027 NBA comeback.
This decision highlights the harsh realities of the NBA, where roster flexibility and instant competitiveness can lead to the firing of even an all-time great like Lillard.