The second day of NBA free agency often brings unexpected twists, and this year was certainly no exception. While blockbuster trades and major signings dominated the initial hours, Day 2 delivered a surprising move that immediately grabbed headlines: the Milwaukee Bucks made a daring roster shake-up.
Milwaukee`s High-Stakes Bet
In a move that few predicted, the Milwaukee Bucks decided to part ways with star guard Damian Lillard. Lillard, who was recovering from a significant Achilles tendon injury sustained during the recent postseason, was released using the “stretch provision.” This procedural maneuver allows teams to spread a player`s salary cap hit over a longer period. In Lillard`s case, the Bucks will still be responsible for paying his full remaining contract, a substantial $113 million. This cost will be amortized on their salary cap at roughly $22.5 million per year for the next five years. It`s a considerable price to pay to move on from a player, especially one whose post-injury future carries uncertainty.
However, the rationale behind this costly decision became clear almost immediately. The cap space created by the Lillard move enabled Milwaukee to aggressively pursue Myles Turner. Turner, a highly sought-after center who had been widely expected to re-sign with the Indiana Pacers, instead agreed to a four-year, $107 million contract with the Bucks. The hope in Milwaukee is that integrating Turner alongside Giannis Antetokounmpo will create a formidable frontcourt and elevate their contention status in the Eastern Conference, though accomplishing that remains a challenging task.
The Bucks also made other roster additions, signing veteran guard Gary Harris, formerly of Orlando, and center Jericho Sims. Additionally, they traded Pat Connaughton, along with two future second-round draft picks, to Charlotte in exchange for guard Vasilije Micic, previously of EuroLeague fame with Anadolu Efes.
Supermax for the MVP
Meanwhile, out in Oklahoma City, the celebrations continued for Shai Gilgeous-Alexander. The reigning NBA MVP, who also led the Thunder to the recent NBA Finals victory, solidified his long-term future with the franchise. Gilgeous-Alexander signed a supermax contract extension, a four-year deal worth $285 million (approximately €241 million). This massive extension keeps the dynamic guard in Oklahoma City through the 2030-31 season, cementing his place as the cornerstone of the Thunder`s successful era.
Nuggets Bolster Bench Depth
Denver, another team fresh off a deep playoff run, also demonstrated significant activity beyond the salary-related Cam Johnson trade. The Nuggets focused on strengthening their depth. They acquired veteran center Jonas Valanciunas in a trade that sent Dario Saric to Sacramento. Valanciunas is expected to provide valuable minutes as a backup to Nikola Jokic. Denver also secured the services of experienced guard Tim Hardaway Jr., previously with the Pistons, adding another reliable piece to their rotation.
Other Notable Signings and Missed Opportunities
Several other teams made notable signings. The New York Knicks added depth to their backcourt by signing Jordan Clarkson, who had been bought out by the Jazz. The Knicks also reached an agreement with French forward Guerschon Yabusele on a two-year, $12 million contract.
Across the league, the Los Angeles Lakers appeared to miss out on several potential center targets, with Brook Lopez heading to the Clippers and Clint Capela joining the Rockets. Luke Kornet, another rumored target, signed a four-year, $41 million deal with the Spurs. The Lakers are reportedly now favorites to land Deandre Ayton, who is available from Portland. However, it has been noted that Ayton`s playing style might not be the ideal complement, say, to a primary ball-handler like Luka Doncic, should such a pairing ever hypothetically materialize in purple and gold.
Sacramento was also active, securing veteran guard Dennis Schroder on a three-year, $45 million contract. The Kings also signed big man Drew Eubanks, notably a player who had previously considered pursuing Italian naturalization due to his heritage – a fun, albeit brief, subplot in the global game.
Day 2 proved to be a fascinating continuation of the NBA free agency frenzy, with unexpected moves and significant long-term commitments shaping the league landscape.
