The Milwaukee Bucks claim they informed Damian Lillard and his representatives before waiving him, insisting the decision was communicated transparently within the organization. However, Lillard challenged this narrative, revealing that he learned about the move simultaneously with the public. This contradicts the Bucks’ version of events and raises questions about the team’s communication practices.
On the social media platform X, the account BucksRealm shared Lillard’s perspective, stating,
“Despite reports surfacing around the league claiming otherwise, Bucks ownership did NOT notify Damian Lillard and his camp ahead of his release. The move was entirely unprompted, and Lillard found out along with the rest of us.”
This public disagreement highlights a growing tension within the Bucks’ organization during this critical roster change.
Details of the Waiver and Its Financial Impact
Lillard was waived using the stretch provision, enabling the Bucks to spread his remaining $113 million salary across five years. This move freed up salary cap space for Milwaukee to pursue new acquisitions, most notably Myles Turner. The financial strategy behind waiving Lillard is clear, but the manner in which it was executed has triggered frustration among fans and players alike.
Giannis Antetokounmpo’s Reaction to the Move
Reports suggest that Giannis Antetokounmpo, the Bucks’ star, was unhappy with how the team handled Lillard’s release. While Antetokounmpo understood the potential benefits of adding Turner to the frontcourt, his public response indicated confusion and disappointment. On X, he simply posted,
“I don’t know what’s going on right now,”
reflecting his surprise at the timing and the announcement’s delivery.
Despite this, ESPN analyst Ramona Shelburne reported that Antetokounmpo may have been aware of the team’s plan in principle and even felt optimistic about Turner joining Milwaukee. Nevertheless, the sudden waiver of his teammate without prior notice overshadowed any excitement.
Implications for Team Dynamics and Future Moves
The disagreement between Lillard and the Bucks over communication reveals deeper issues within the franchise’s operation. This controversy not only affects locker room morale but could influence how players perceive management moving forward. With Myles Turner expected to fill Lillard’s role, the Bucks face the challenge of balancing roster changes while maintaining trust and cohesion among their core players.
The fallout from this waiver controversy may prompt the Bucks to reassess their internal communication strategies and transparency with key players, especially as they pursue another title run in a highly competitive NBA season.