The Milwaukee Bucks have decided to cut Damian Lillard, despite the fact that he still had two seasons left on his contract. The unexpected decision aims to free up salary cap space to add center Myles Turner from the Indiana Pacers.

The information was reported Tuesday by ESPN and confirmed by Shams Charania, one of the most reliable journalists in the NBA environment.

According to the report, the Bucks are committed to paying the $113 million they owe Lillard over a five-year plan. This agreement allows them to restructure their finances and focus on strengthening other areas of the team, following a season that ended earlier than expected in the playoffs.

The move has generated a strong impact among fans and figures around the league. The decision comes just weeks after Lillard suffered a torn left Achilles tendon during the playoffs, a serious injury that will keep him sidelined for most of next season.

Turner, the new piece to accompany Giannis

In parallel, the Bucks already have a deal tied up with Myles Turner. The 29-year-old center, key to the Pacers' finalists this season, will sign a four-year, $107 million deal, with a player option in the final year. This season, Turner averaged 15.6 points, 6.5 rebounds, and 2 blocks per game, solidifying himself as one of the league's best rim protectors.

With this addition, Milwaukee aims to strengthen its interior defense and ease the burden on Giannis Antetokounmpo, who has carried much of the team's load in recent years.

Lillard, 34, ends his tenure in Milwaukee after two seasons. In the last one, he averaged 24.9 points, 7.1 assists, and 4.7 rebounds, while shooting 44.8% from the field. However, his contributions were overshadowed by injuries and a lack of consistency in key moments.

The reaction was quick to come. In response to ESPN's Instagram post, NBA legend Carmelo Anthony wrote: "THERE IS NO LOYALTY IN SPORTS!”