After coming incredibly close to winning a championship with the Indiana Pacers last season, center Myles Turner is starting fresh with a new team and the same goal. He has officially joined the Milwaukee Bucks, signing a four-year, $108.9 million contract, ready to help the team pursue another NBA title.
This move marks a significant shift for both Turner and the Bucks. For Turner, it’s a chance to join a team with recent championship experience and a superstar leader in Giannis Antetokounmpo. For the Bucks, it’s a strategic decision to add a younger, athletic big man to their roster as they look to return to championship contention after three consecutive first-round playoff exits.
🤝 A Fresh Start and a Shared Goal
Myles Turner explained that his experience in the 2025 NBA Finals made him even more determined to win a title. “Now that I’ve actually experienced it and know what it’s like to be in that room, be so close, it’s something that drives me more now,” he said. He was drawn to the Bucks because of their championship background from winning in 2021. Turner believes that their shared desire to compete for a championship makes Milwaukee the perfect fit for him.
♟️ A Bold Move by the Bucks
To sign Turner, the Bucks made a major decision by waiving veteran guard Damian Lillard. Lillard, who is recovering from a serious Achilles injury, will have his remaining salary paid out over the next five years. This move shows how committed the Bucks were to acquiring Turner, seeing him as a key piece for their future. For Turner, leaving the Pacers after 10 seasons was a bittersweet moment. “These guys are your brothers… Unfortunately, it is a business,” he shared, reflecting on his time in Indiana.
💪 What Turner Brings to the Team
At 29, Turner brings a valuable and modern skill set to Milwaukee. He is an excellent defender and two-time NBA blocks leader who can also shoot 3-pointers, making him a difficult matchup for opponents. This versatility makes him an ideal replacement for former Bucks center Brook Lopez, who signed with the Clippers. Giannis Antetokounmpo expressed great excitement about his new teammate, saying, “He’s one of the best bigs in the league… I think he gives our team so much depth.” Coach Doc Rivers also plans to use Turner’s ability to score both from the outside and near the basket.
