The Milwaukee Bucks stunned the basketball community on July 6, 2025, by waiving Damian Lillard, a bold roster move that signals deep uncertainty surrounding the team’s franchise cornerstone, Giannis Antetokounmpo. This move was not only about salary management but also a clear message to Antetokounmpo regarding the franchise’s commitment and the shaky outlook of his tenure in Milwaukee.
Coming off a 48-34 season, expectations were high for the Bucks as they entered the 2025 postseason with Giannis leading the charge. However, an early first-round exit at the hands of the Indiana Pacers disrupted those plans and intensified speculation over whether Antetokounmpo would stay loyal or consider leaving for a championship opportunity elsewhere.
Reasons Behind the Bucks’ Decision to Waive Damian Lillard
Acquired two years prior in a major three-team trade, Damian Lillard was expected to be a key player for Milwaukee. However, Lillard was still recovering from a torn Achilles injury sustained in the playoffs, and with two years remaining on his contract, the Bucks’ decision to waive him caught many off guard. The team opted to stretch his $113 million remaining contract over five years, creating immediate salary cap flexibility.
That freed-up cap space allowed Milwaukee to quickly sign center Myles Turner, a move geared towards reshaping the roster. Yet, reports reveal that the decision to waive Lillard was more than just a financial or strategic adjustment. Sources cited by ESPN’s Shams Charania stated that this action was essentially a deliberate message sent to Antetokounmpo, showing that the organization was going all-in to keep him.
“Sources tell me there’s still nothing set in stone about whether Giannis Antetokounmpo will stay in Milwaukee or whether he will be leaving.”
—@ShamsCharania
During an episode of Get Up, Charania expanded,
“They went out and they stretched, and waived Damian Lillard, $113 million. They did that because they wanted to show Giannis we’re doing everything in our power to keep you here. But Giannis Antetokounmpo is the ultimate decider whether he feels this roster is good enough.”
—@ShamsCharania
Giannis Antetokounmpo’s Silence Adds to Uncertainty in Milwaukee
Despite the franchise’s efforts, Antetokounmpo has remained publicly noncommittal about his long-term intentions with the Bucks. While team president Peter Feigin appeared optimistic during a recent G-League game, assuring fans that the organization is confident Giannis will stay, the star player’s lack of commentary has only fueled mounting speculation.
The situation is complicated by conflicting reports regarding Lillard’s departure. NBA insider Chris Haynes revealed that Lillard had requested to conduct his Achilles rehabilitation in Portland to be closer to his children, a move the Bucks reportedly disapproved of. This discord may have contributed to Milwaukee’s decision to waive him.
“I was informed that Aaron Goodwin, Damian Lillard’s agent, about a month ago, reached out to the Bucks and informed them that Dame would like to rehab back home in Portland. Stay with his kids, rehab back in Portland.”
—Chris Haynes
“I was told that some people within the Bucks did not approve of that, and there was kind of some back and forth right there. I think that might have gotten the ball going or at least put some ideas in the heads of the Milwaukee Bucks that kind of led to this decision.”
—Chris Haynes
Damian Lillard’s Return to Portland and New Role at Weber State
Following his release, Damian Lillard quickly secured a new contract, returning to the Portland Trail Blazers on a three-year, $42 million deal. Beyond playing, Lillard has also accepted the position of general manager for the men’s basketball program at his alma mater, Weber State, signaling a significant transition in his career.
Lillard’s departure caps a brief but impactful chapter in Milwaukee, underscoring the franchise’s urgent—and costly—attempt to demonstrate their commitment to keeping Giannis. By absorbing the financial burden of Lillard’s contract, the Bucks sought to send a powerful message that they are willing to sacrifice for their superstar.
Implications for the Bucks Amid Giannis Antetokounmpo’s Uncertain Commitment
The Bucks’ waiver of Lillard represents more than a roster update—it symbolizes the franchise’s precarious position as it tries to convince Giannis Antetokounmpo to remain. With the two-time MVP’s future unresolved, the organization faces mounting pressure to build a competitive roster while navigating financial challenges. This situation places Milwaukee’s championship aspirations in question and suggests that the team’s next moves will be heavily influenced by Giannis’s ultimate decision.
As the NBA offseason progresses, all eyes will be on Antetokounmpo and how he responds to this clear signal from Milwaukee. Whether he opts to stay or seek opportunities elsewhere will shape the Bucks’ direction and determine the fate of a team that has been built around his extraordinary talent for nearly a decade.