NBA powerhouses lead the chase for ‘ecstatic’ Damian Lillard after Bucks exit
The nine-time All-Star, recovering from a torn Achilles, is already drawing interest from major suitors after parting ways with Milwaukee.
Damian Lillard’s time in Milwaukee is over—and several contenders are already circling. The nine-time All-Star reportedly drew interest from multiple teams across the league after news broke that the Bucks are parting ways with the 33-year-old guard.
How much did Lillard have left on his Bucks contract?
Lillard still had $113 million remaining on his contract, but Milwaukee opted to cut ties and instead invest in free agent center Myles Turner, locking him down with a four-year, $107 million deal. The move means the Bucks will eat $22.5 million per year to buy out Lillard’s deal.
Lillard suffered a torn Achilles during the Bucks’ first-round playoff series against the Indiana Pacers, a blow that ended his season prematurely. Before the injury, he was averaging 24.9 points, 7.1 assists, and 4.7 rebounds across 58 games in the 2024–25 campaign.
Milwaukee acquired Lillard just last year in a blockbuster three-team trade involving the Portland Trail Blazers and Phoenix Suns. That deal sent Jrue Holiday to Portland and Deandre Ayton to the Suns.
The NBA teams interested in Lillard
Now, Lillard is once again one of the hottest names on the market.
According to NBA insider Chris Haynes, the Miami Heat are expected to be one of the most aggressive suitors. The Golden State Warriors are also reportedly in the mix, per ESPN’s Marc Spears.
The key question for potential landing spots? Whether to sign Lillard now and oversee his rehab process in-house, or wait until he’s further along—even if that means sacrificing the entire 2025–26 season.
Lillard “upbeat,” Giannis unhappy with Bucks decision
Despite the injury and the sudden split, Lillard is said to be upbeat about the opportunity, per The Athletic’s Sam Amick. He sees this as a chance to join a title-contending team and make one more serious run at a championship.
One person less thrilled with the decision: Bucks superstar Giannis Antetokounmpo, who was reportedly unhappy with the front office’s move to cut ties with Lillard so soon.
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