The Athletic NBA Daily Bucks waive Damian Lillard, sign Myles Turner
Jul 2, 2025
Kelly Iko, a Houston Rockets insider for The Athletic, joins the discussion on the Bucks’ surprising decision to waive Damian Lillard and acquire Myles Turner. The conversation dives into the strategic implications of these moves for Milwaukee's roster dynamics. Iko also sheds light on the Rockets' trade for Kevin Durant, analyzing how this addition fits into the team's evolving strategies. The episode explores challenges for young talent like Cam Whitmore and how the Rockets are balancing experience with youth for future success.
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Turner Fits Bucks Defensively
- Myles Turner is expected to be a defensive upgrade next to Giannis Antetokounmpo.
- The Bucks' main challenge is finding reliable guard play to handle and create offense alongside Turner and Giannis.
Bucks' Historic Stretch and Waive Move
- The Bucks stretched Damian Lillard's contract over five years to free cap space for Myles Turner.
- This is the largest stretch and waive in NBA history, creating significant dead money but securing a defensive upgrade.
Valanciunas Strengthens Nuggets Backup
- The Denver Nuggets upgraded their backup center, trading Dario Saric for Jonas Valanciunas.
- Valanciunas provides reliable scoring and rebounding as a solid Joker substitute without disrupting team chemistry.