Damian Lillard Expresses Feelings After Bucks Waiver: Financial Security, Unprecedented Free Agency Freedom Await Star Guard
reaction to being waived by the
Milwaukee Bucks
has been one of surprise followed by elation, according to multiple credible reports. The Bucks' decision, which came as a shock to the NBA community, ended Lillard's two-year stint in Milwaukee and was primarily motivated by the team's desire to free up cap space to sign Myles Turner to a four-year, $107 million contract.
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Damian Lillard's Initial Reaction and Emotional Shift
immediate response was reportedly one of surprise, mirroring the reaction of many around the league. However, after processing the news, Lillard became 'elated' with the outcome. According to The Athletic and ESPN's Shams Charania, Lillard is 'ecstatic' because the move gives him unprecedented freedom: he will continue to receive $113 million over the next five years due to the
' use of the stretch provision, while also becoming an unrestricted free agent able to choose his next team—something he has never experienced in his career.
"League sources say Lillard is elated with this decision, as it puts him in the kind of basketball-first position that few All-Star-level players, if any, have experienced in league history," wrote The Athletic.
Why Damian Lillard Welcomed the Move
Several factors contributed to Damian Lillard's positive outlook:
- Financial Security: The stretch provision ensures he will be paid $22.5 million annually for the next five years, regardless of where he plays.
- Freedom of Choice: For the first time, Lillard can select his next destination without the constraints of a trade or contract obligations. This is particularly significant as he continues his recovery from a torn Achilles tendon suffered during the 2025 playoffs.
- Interest from Contenders: Reports indicate that multiple contending teams have already reached out to Lillard, presenting him with the opportunity to join a championship-caliber roster when he is ready to return to play.
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Lillard's Personal Considerations
Lillard's time in Milwaukee was reportedly challenging on a personal level, particularly due to being away from his family, who remained in Portland following his 2023 trade from the
. The waiver allows him to rehab his injury in Portland, surrounded by family, while contemplating his next career move.
Context and Legacy of Damian
During his two seasons with the Milwaukee Bucks, Damian Lillard averaged 24.6 points, 7.0 assists, and 4.6 rebounds per game, maintaining his reputation as one of the league's elite guards.
Despite high expectations, Milwaukee's playoff runs were hampered by injuries to both Lillard and Giannis Antetokounmpo, leading to consecutive early exits.
Also read:
Damian Lillard's feelings after being waived by the Milwaukee Bucks are best described as relieved and optimistic. He views the move as a 'dream scenario' that grants him both financial stability and the rare freedom to choose his next team, all while recovering on his own terms. This unique position sets the stage for the next chapter in his storied NBA career.
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