Lillard Returns to Portland; Bucks Restructure Roster

The Milwaukee Bucks waived Damian Lillard and stretched the remaining $113 million of his contract to clear cap space, facilitating the acquisition of Myles Turner. Lillard, a nine-time All-Star, returned to the Portland Trail Blazers on a three-year, $45 million deal but will spend the next year recovering from an Achilles tear and mentoring the team's younger players. The Bucks announced that Kyle Kuzma will take over Lillard's No. 0 jersey, but Kuzma is expected to miss most or all of the 2025-26 season due to injury following his underwhelming playoff performance. Lillard celebrated his homecoming by posting a photo in his old jersey. Bucks fans are still coming to terms with Lillard's departure and the rapid reassignment of his jersey number. Milwaukee, now led by Giannis Antetokounmpo and new additions, hopes the roster changes will improve their championship prospects.