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Damian Lillard's Agent Releases Statement After Shock Move

Originally posted on The Spun | By Andrew Gould | Last updated Jul 1, 2025 2:55 PM ET

To nearly everyone's surprise, Damian Lillard will become a free agent.

The Milwaukee Bucks stunned the NBA world by waiving the seven-time All-NBA point guard on Tuesday. Lillard is expected to miss the entire 2025-26 season after tearing his Achilles tendon during the playoffs.

Milwaukee's move isn't necessarily bad news for Lillard. His agent, Aaron Goodwin, highlighted the positives in a statement shared by The Oregonian's Aaron J. Fentress.

"It's an incredible opportunity for Damian. He receives all of his money guaranteed, and it provides him an opportunity to decide his next destination as an unrestricted free agent," Goodwin said. "He gets a chance to rehab at home if he chooses to, and be with his family and his kids for the next year. The goal is for him to take his time and make a decision on what his next destination will be."

The Bucks still owe Lillard the remaining $113 million of his contract, but they'll use the stretch provision to pay the deal's final two years over the next five years. Waiving Lillard allowed Milwaukee to sign Myles Turner to a four-year, $107 million contract, per ESPN's Shams Charania.

It's not often a potential Hall of Famer gets waived after an All-Star season. Lillard averaged 24.9 points, 7.1 assists, and 4.2 rebounds per game during his 13th NBA season and second in Milwaukee.

Milwaukee hoped Lillard would give Giannis Antetokounmpo a superstar running mate to lead the organization back to championship heights. Instead, they've suffered consecutive first-round playoff exits.

Lillard missed the final 14 games of the regular season due to deep vein thrombosis in his right calf before returning for the playoffs. He tore his Achilles early in a Game 4 loss to the Indiana Pacers.

Since he turns 35 later this month, Lillard will likely be 36 by the time he suits up for a new team. Yet Fentress said the veteran is drawing "heavy interest" around the league.

Chris Haynes reported that teams have already contacted Lillard. The NBA TV insider said to monitor the Miami Heat and a potential reunion with the Portland Trail Blazers.

This article first appeared on The Spun and was syndicated with permission.

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