Patryk Stachowiak
In a dramatic twist that sent ripples through the basketball world, the Milwaukee Bucks have officially waived Damian Lillard, the nine-time All-Star guard who will miss the upcoming season due to Achilles surgery.
The Bucks exercised the NBA’s stretch provision to ease the cap burden, spreading the remaining $113 million across five years instead of taking the hit over the next two. This strategic cap move clears the path for Milwaukee to pursue a new direction, with Myles Turner reportedly set to arrive per ESPN’s Shams Charania
Myles Turner. Source: bleacherreport.com
Lillard’s Surprising Reaction: ‘Elated’
Rather than expressing disappointment, Lillard is reportedly “elated” with the development. According to The Athletic’s Sam Amick, the veteran sees the move as a golden opportunity to reset his path without financial restrictions clouding the picture.
“He’ll be able to join the contending team of his choosing… without the financial aspect of the decision playing a significant part.” — Sam Amick
Several playoff-caliber teams have already expressed interest. Whether Lillard signs now and rehabs under a new club’s umbrella, or waits for a fresh landscape in 2026, he’s now in control. It’s a strategic win for a player who was likely headed for a trade even before the injury.
Looking Back: Lillard’s Time in Milwaukee
Lillard joined the Bucks from the Portland Trail Blazers ahead of the 2023–24 season. The expectation? A championship tandem alongside Giannis Antetokounmpo. The reality? Two disappointing first-round exits and lingering questions about Milwaukee’s direction under Doc Rivers.
In 131 appearances, Lillard averaged 24.6 points, 7 assists, and 4.5 rebounds while shooting 43.3% from the field and 36.4% from beyond the arc.
What’s Next?
Lillard’s future is as open as it’s ever been. With his contract no longer a roadblock, he enters the market with leverage and interest. For teams chasing titles, the idea of landing a fully recovered Damian Lillard might be too good to pass up.
Stay tuned — this is one free agency saga that could reshape the next chapter of NBA contention.