
As the 2025 NBA draft first round wrapped up, the league’s focus quickly shifted to the upcoming offseason, where the trade market and free-agent signings will take center stage. Among the notable names available are two prominent big men: Myles Turner and Brook Lopez. Their potential moves in the 2025 NBA free agency could significantly impact several teams aiming to strengthen their rosters.
Myles Turner’s Role and Prospects After a Strong Season
Myles Turner experienced a familiar but noteworthy campaign in 2024-25, contributing importantly to the Indiana Pacers’ resurgence. The Pacers tallied their first 50-win season in over ten years and made their initial playoff Finals appearance in a quarter-century, shedding light on Turner’s vital presence. Although Turner doesn’t dominate scoring or rebounding, his unique skill set as a defender and perimeter shooter adds modern versatility that every contending team desires. His career-best 39.6 percent shooting from beyond the arc, with 2.2 made threes per game, underscores his growing offensive value alongside his established rim protection.
If Turner opts to explore free agency beyond Indiana, multiple franchises are likely to pursue him eagerly.
Indiana Pacers: A Familiar and Financially Strong Option
Turner, drafted 11th overall by the Pacers in 2015, has been the cornerstone of their interior defense since. Despite rumors of trade discussions in past seasons, Indiana has maintained faith in him, evidenced by Turner posting one of his highest average minutes per game (30.2) in 2024-25. The Pacers can offer Turner a comfortable environment with trusted coaching and proven chemistry, alongside a lucrative contract if they decide to absorb luxury tax penalties. Turner’s decision may ultimately come down to loyalty or a desire to pursue other opportunities.

Detroit Pistons Seek Experienced Big Man to Complement Star Guard
The Detroit Pistons, returning to the playoffs after a five-year hiatus, are focused on accelerating their growth around young star Cade Cunningham. Cunningham’s impressive averages of 26.1 points and 9.1 assists per game highlight the need for better floor spacing. Although Detroit has options at center, adding a stretch big like Turner could open lanes for Cunningham and the Pistons’ wings, creating a more dynamic and efficient offense. The front office is likely to weigh Turner’s blend of defense and shooting as a means to capitalize on their playoff momentum.
Golden State Warriors Eye Turner as Ideal Stretch Five for Roster
The Warriors have long valued big men who can shoot from distance, and Turner fits their ideal mold better than their current options, such as Quinten Post, who has defensive liabilities. Coach Steve Kerr could leverage Turner’s shooting to maximize Golden State’s offensive spacing and versatility, potentially increasing the team’s three-point volume from the center position. However, signing Turner directly may be complicated by Golden State’s salary cap limitations. A potential solution could involve a sign-and-trade deal, notably with restricted free agent Jonathan Kuminga, to bring Turner to the Bay Area.
Brook Lopez Brings Veteran Shooting and Rim Defense as Milestone Season Ends
Brook Lopez appears to be concluding his tenure with the Milwaukee Bucks after consistently providing value since 2018. His reliable three-point shooting and rim protection remain his defensive cornerstones, though his overall impact has lessened with age. During the 2024-25 season, Lopez averaged 1.9 blocks and 1.7 three-pointers per game while shooting 37.3 percent from deep. Despite no standout statistical leaps, Lopez remains a viable option for teams seeking a center to support championship ambitions while spacing the floor.
Los Angeles Lakers Target Lopez to Fill Their Center Void
The Lakers face a pressing need to secure a dependable center to complement their roster, and Lopez emerges as a logical fit. Although Los Angeles often pursues athletic rim runners capable of finishing alley-oops, they might also find value in Lopez’s shooting ability, which would open up opportunities for their perimeter players. His experience and spacing could integrate well with the Lakers’ offensive scheme, adding a dimension that helps exploit opposing defenses.
What the Future Holds for Turner and Lopez in the 2025 NBA Free Agency
Myles Turner and Brook Lopez represent two notable centers whose career trajectories are entering pivotal phases as the 2025 NBA free agency approaches. Turner, coming off a breakthrough season with the Pacers, has several attractive landing spots ranging from familiar territory in Indiana to contenders like Detroit and Golden State. Meanwhile, Lopez, closing in on the sunset of his career, still offers a compelling shooting and rim protection profile for teams in need of experience. The decisions they make and the deals that materialize will influence team dynamics and playoff outlooks across the league in the coming season.