The Milwaukee Bucks have made a significant move by signing Myles Turner to a four-year, $108.9 million deal. On the face of it, this commitment seems reasonable. Turner, a dependable big man who has shown flashes of brilliance, fits the profile of a starting center in today’s game. His average annual salary of approximately $27.2 million is around the market value for players at that position. Yet, the complexity of this decision lies in the pathway Milwaukee took to make it happen—most notably, waiving and stretching Damian Lillard’s contract.
The move to let go of Lillard, who was the centerpiece of the franchise’s recent plans, appears contentious. This decision forced the Bucks to absorb the remaining $113 million of Lillard’s contract, which translates to a hefty $22.5 million annually for the next five seasons—essentially paying a player who no longer suits up in their colors. Critics, including Yahoo Sports, have dubbed the Turner signing as the worst free agency contract of the summer, questioning the efficacy of Milwaukee’s strategy.
However, placing blame solely on Turner for this situation feels misplaced. His individual value remains intact, and it’s not his fault that the organization felt compelled to part ways with Lillard. Evaluating Turner’s contract without considering the broader context may lead to unfair conclusions about his worth. The Bucks faced a pivotal choice in how they wanted to structure their team moving forward, and they opted for the path of risk, hoping to remain competitive in an Eastern Conference that, while talented, showcases its share of inconsistencies.
Ultimately, the Bucks are banking on Turner’s ability to contribute significantly and provide much-needed stability in the frontcourt. Their decision highlights the precarious nature of maintaining a competitive roster in a league defined by rapid change and dynamic player movement. As the season approaches, all eyes will be on how this gamble pays off for Milwaukee and whether they can harness Turner’s full potential to elevate themselves amid the challenges ahead.
