The Milwaukee Bucks made one of the biggest moves of the free agency period by landing Myles Turner, a key contributor in the Indiana Pacers’ recent run to the NBA Finals. While many expected Turner to remain with the Pacers, he ultimately opted for a fresh start in Milwaukee. The veteran center opened up about his decision and what he believes is still to come in his career.
Turner addressed reporters during his introductory press conference and later expanded on his mindset in a live stream conversation with Kyrie Irving. He made it clear that the move wasn’t about a fairytale ending—it was about timing, growth, and positioning himself to contend.
“At the end of the day, bro, it’s not a Cinderella story, you know what I mean?” Turner told Irving. “I think people are trying to frame it that way. I wanted to be thankful for everyone who rocked with me during my 10-year journey in Indiana, but I also had to make the best decision for my family and for myself heading into my prime. This is how I saw it fitting.”
The conversation then turned toward Turner’s potential moving forward. Irving asked whether there’s a better version of Myles Turner still to come. Without hesitation, Turner responded, “Absolutely. I’m evolving.”
Myles Turner #33 of the Indiana Pacers talks with Tyrese Haliburton #0 during the third quarter against the New York Knicks in Game Three of the Eastern Conference Finals of the 2025 NBA Playoffs
The Bucks could unlock even more from Turner’s game—especially if Giannis Antetokounmpo remains with the franchise. Having the two-time MVP as a mentor and frontcourt partner could be a win-win scenario, both for Turner’s development and Milwaukee’s championship aspirations.
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Most around the league had expected Turner to return to Indiana, but financial decisions may have shifted the outcome. The Pacers reportedly hesitated to enter the luxury tax to retain the 28-year-old center. Tyrese Haliburton’s Achilles injury, which will sideline him for the upcoming season, may have also played a role in the team’s shift in priorities.
Now, Milwaukee finds itself with a talented frontcourt duo, but questions remain about whether the roster is truly championship-ready. Turner adds rim protection, spacing, and experience, but the Bucks will need more than that to challenge teams like Boston and Denver.
The front office has taken a bold step toward reshaping the team’s identity. Whether it pays off in deep postseason success will depend on how well Turner meshes with the core and whether the Bucks can stay healthy and cohesive throughout the NBA season.
