Reports have confirmed that Damian Lillard was not bypassed by the Milwaukee Bucks and him getting waived is something that he has a say, too.
Damian Lillard, Milwaukee Bucks, Myles Turner
Jan 31, 2024; Portland, Oregon, USA; Milwaukee Bucks guard Damian Lillard (0) shows his love for Portland fans during introductions before a game against the Portland Trail Blazers at Moda Center. Mandatory Credit: Troy Wayrynen-USA TODAY Sports
The Wisconsin-based organization shocked the NBA community on Tuesday when it confirmed that they have released the two-time All-Star after two seasons using the stretch provision allowed by the league. Under the agreed terms, the Bucks will let Lillard become an unrestricted free agency, freeing some money in its cap space.
Lillard was the second best paid player last season. He is supposed to receive around $56 million next season and then in the next one but because of his injury, his salary is considered dead money and is preventing the team from signing free agents.
They worked a deal and now, the Bucks will only need to pay him around $22 million per year until 2030 under the stretch-waive provision.
Lillard’s time with the Bucks is not as great based on his own standard and the fact that he played with perennial MVP contender Giannis Antetokounmpo.
Giannis Antetokounmpo, Toronto Raptors, Milwaukee Bucks
Nov 12, 2024; Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA; Milwaukee Bucks forward Giannis Antetokounmpo (34) sits with guard Damian Lillard on the bench during the fourth quarter against the Toronto Raptors at Fiserv Forum. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Hanisch-Imagn Images
The team exited the first round in both seasons Dame was there. Lillard did not have the Greek Freak in the first one and in the second, he only got to play two games due to a knee injury that also ended his season.
The only trophy he won wearing Bucks color is the NBA Cup.
Michael Redd understands Damian Lillard situation
It is not secret that Lillard wants to return to the Bucks. Stronger. However, the recent developments did not allow that to happen.
Reporter Chris Haynes, who has been an insider on Lillard situation, revealed that the nine-time All-Star requested to have his rehab conducted in his home in Portland to be with his kids and family but the Bucks refused.
The conversation about him getting let go, according to Haynes, was started by it.
Michal Redd, who was the last All-Star Milwaukee had before Giannis, sympathizes with Lillard. He said he understands it that Dame wants to be closer with his family.
USATSI 22805814
Mar 18, 2024; Columbus, OH, USA; Former Ohio State basketball player Michael Redd attends the introductory press conference for head coach Jake Diebler at Value City Arena.
He wrote on X:
You play best when you’re happiest.
Damian Lillard and the Bucks just proved that, working out an amicable release because, in part, being away from family was too hard.
I can relate. When I got traded to Phoenix late in my career, my family stayed in the Midwest. It wasn’t easy, and we had to learn on the job.
Family decisions in this league hit different.
Redd also thought that the two parties handled this fork in the road well.
You play best when you’re happiest.
Damian Lillard and the Bucks just proved that, working out an amicable release because, in part, being away from family was too hard.
I can relate. When I got traded to Phoenix late in my career, my family stayed in the Midwest. It wasn’t… https://t.co/QBi8KRCSCy
— Michael Redd (@MichaelRedd_) July 2, 2025
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