Indiana Pacers president Kevin Pritchard found out about Myles Turner’s move to the Milwaukee Bucks through social media, specifically via a tweet from ESPN’s Shams Charania. Speaking to the media on Monday, Pritchard discussed several topics, including the surprising trade involving Damian Lillard and how Turner’s departure came as a shock to the Pacers organization. He explained that while they were open to a sign-and-trade deal that could have benefited both sides, the negotiations never reached that stage.
Turner, a 6-foot-11 center who played a key defensive role and stretched the floor with his three-point shooting during Indiana’s playoff run, left for the Bucks, Indiana’s division rivals. His departure came after the Pacers’ tough loss in the NBA Finals to the Oklahoma City Thunder. Before Tyrese Halliburton suffered an Achilles injury in Game 7, Turner had already signed a deal with the team, making it appear likely Indiana would maintain a strong core for the upcoming season. However, Halliburton’s injury means he will miss the entire next season, adding to the team’s challenges.
Despite criticism that the Pacers didn’t want to pay the NBA luxury tax to keep their competitive roster intact, Pritchard denied that financial concerns led to Turner’s exit. He emphasized that team owners Herb Simon and Stephen Rail were willing to exceed the tax threshold to retain Turner. Pritchard noted that while the team negotiated in good faith, Turner had the right to choose the best offer for himself and his family, which ended up being with Milwaukee.
Pritchard also found the Bucks’ method of creating salary cap space to sign Turner “a bit surprising.” Milwaukee gave Turner a four-year, $107 million contract, a deal facilitated by moving on from Damian Lillard and extending the contract of an injured All-Star guard for two more years and $113 million. Like Halliburton, Lillard is expected to miss much, if not all, of the next season due to his Achilles injury.
The Bucks seem focused on winning in the near term by acquiring Turner to support Giannis Antetokounmpo and improve a roster that has declined since their 2021 championship win. Whether this move makes the Bucks stronger remains to be seen. One thing is clear: Turner’s departure weakens the Pacers, and the promising outlook Indiana had just weeks ago now looks much less certain for the 2025-26 season.
Fan Take: This news is a game-changer for NBA fans as it shifts power within the Eastern Conference, showing how quickly team dynamics can evolve. Turner’s move not only impacts the Pacers’ competitive future but also signals the Bucks’ strong intent to build around Giannis and remain championship contenders.
