How the Milwaukee Bucks shape up after Lillard departure

The countdown to the start of the next NBA season keeps ticking, and teams continue tweaking their rosters during the preseason – with the chance to bring in free agents still on the table.

Earlier this month, Damian Lillard was ruled out for the season after tearing his Achilles tendon during Milwaukee’s first-round playoff series against the Indiana Pacers.

In response, the Bucks made a bold move by signing free-agent center Myles Turner, formerly of the Pacers, to a four-year, $107 million contract. Lillard, meanwhile, still had $113 million left on his deal at the time of the injury.

Now, it’s been confirmed that Lillard will return to the Portland Trail Blazers – the team where he spent his first 11 seasons – signing a three-year, $42 million contract. Though the point guard is expected to miss most of the upcoming season as he continues his recovery, his value remains undeniable: last season, he averaged 24.9 points, 7.1 assists and 4.7 rebounds in 58 games.

Bucks roster adjustments

Milwaukee has opted for continuity with key contributors. Bobby Portis has re-signed on a team-friendly three-year, $44 million deal. The team also brought in Kevin Porter Jr., Gary Trent Jr., Taurean Prince and Jericho Sims to round out the rotation.

Giannis Antetokounmpo remains the undisputed leader. In last year’s playoff series against Indiana, he posted dominant averages of 33 points, 15.4 rebounds and 6.6 assists per game.

But the Bucks aren’t just dealing with Lillard’s absence. Veteran center Brook Lopez has also moved on, signing with the Los Angeles Clippers. His spot will be filled by Turner, whose rim protection and mobility are seen as an immediate upgrade.

Milwaukee also traded Pat Connaughton and two second-round picks to the Hornets in exchange for Vasilije Micic – a salary-saving move. Connaughton was set to earn $9.4 million, while Micic is on a $7.7 million deal.

Projected starting five for the Milwaukee Bucks next season:

PG: Kevin Porter Jr.SG: Gary Trent Jr.SF: Kyle KuzmaPF: Giannis AntetokounmpoC: Myles Turner

Bench rotation: Bobby Portis, AJ Green, Cole Anthony, Ryan Rollins, Jericho Sims, Taurean Prince, Gary Harris, Tyler Smith, Andre Jackson Jr.

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