In one of the most significant moves of the 2025 NBA free agency period, the Milwaukee Bucks have secured the services of Myles Turner, the former Indiana Pacers center, with a four-year, $107 million contract. The deal marks a bold step by the Bucks to solidify their frontcourt and reinforce their championship aspirations in the post-Giannis Antetokounmpo era—or potentially as part of a final title push with the Greek superstar.
Turner’s Arrival Signals a Shift in Milwaukee
Myles Turner, 28, spent his entire NBA career with the Indiana Pacers before hitting the open market this offseason. Known for his elite shot-blocking, floor-spacing ability, and improving offensive game, Turner averaged 15.6 points, 7.4 rebounds, and 2.3 blocks per game last season. His ability to protect the rim while also knocking down threes makes him one of the most versatile big men in the league.
The Bucks, who have faced questions about the durability and long-term effectiveness of their aging core, saw Turner as a key piece to rejuvenate their interior defense and balance the floor on both ends. His presence is expected to ease the defensive load on Brook Lopez, or possibly replace him entirely if Lopez departs or retires.
Fit with the Bucks’ Core
Turner will join a core group that includes Damian Lillard, Khris Middleton, and potentially Giannis Antetokounmpo, depending on how Milwaukee handles upcoming contract and roster decisions. With Lillard commanding the offense and Turner spacing the floor while anchoring the defense, the Bucks could quickly become one of the most well-rounded teams in the Eastern Conference.
If Antetokounmpo remains in Milwaukee, the pairing of him and Turner could be a defensive nightmare for opponents—two elite rim protectors with switchability and mobility. Offensively, Turner’s shooting (he shot 36.9% from beyond the arc last season) gives Giannis more room to attack the paint without clogging the lane.
Indiana Moves On, Bucks Load Up
For the Pacers, Turner’s departure closes a significant chapter. A steady presence in Indiana since being drafted 11th overall in 2015, Turner grew into a fan favorite and defensive cornerstone. With rising stars like Tyrese Haliburton and Bennedict Mathurin, Indiana appears ready to lean into a younger, more dynamic roster construction that may focus on speed and spacing.
Meanwhile, the Bucks are clearly in win-now mode. This deal with Turner signals the franchise’s intent to remain a contender in the ever-competitive East. With Boston, New York, and Cleveland all strengthening their rosters, Milwaukee’s move ensures they stay firmly in the championship conversation.
Final Thoughts
Myles Turner’s four-year, $107 million deal with the Bucks is more than a free agency splash—it’s a strategic pivot toward sustained competitiveness. Whether the move results in a deep playoff run or another NBA Finals appearance remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: Milwaukee just got significantly better, and the Eastern Conference race just got a lot more interesting.
