Bucks make stunning move with Damian Lillard

The Milwaukee Bucks have decided to part ways with Damian Lillard, and they are essentially taking the veteran point guard’s remaining contract on the chin.

The Bucks will waive Lillard and stretch the remainder of the $113 million they owe him, ESPN’s Shams Charania reported on Tuesday. By freeing up some money in the near term, Milwaukee was able to sign veteran center Myles Turner to a 4-year, $107 million deal.

Lillard is recovering from a torn Achilles he suffered during the opening round of the playoffs. Charania reports that the 34-year-old’s contract will be spread out over the next five seasons

The Bucks acquired Lillard in a trade with the Portland Trail Blazers in September 2023. Lillard averaged 24.9 points, 7.1 assists and 4.7 rebounds per game this season.

Prior to Lillard getting hurt, the Bucks believed he would be the missing piece to pair with Giannis Antetokounmpo and help them win another title. They have now decided to give themselves some salary cap flexibility while trying to re-tool in a weakened Eastern Conference.

With Milwaukee now cutting Lillard and paying him the remainder of his contract, the nine-time All-Star will be free to sign with any team. He could potentially join a contender on a league minimum salary once he is recovered from his Achilles injury.