It’s the end of an era in Indiana — and the beginning of a new one in Milwaukee.
Myles Turner, the Indiana Pacers’ longest-tenured player and one of the NBA’s premier shot-blockers, is officially on the move. The veteran center has agreed to a four-year, $107 million deal with the Milwaukee Bucks, a contract that includes a player option for the 2028–29 season and a full 15% trade kicker. The move marks a seismic shift not just for the Pacers and Bucks, but for the entire Central Division.
Turner leaves Indiana after spending a full decade with the franchise. During his time in Indianapolis, he became the Pacers’ all-time leader in blocks and the heart of their defense. With his combination of rim protection, rebounding, and evolving offensive versatility, Turner had long been considered a core piece of Indiana’s roster — especially as they began to build a competitive unit around young star Tyrese Haliburton.
Despite his public desire to remain a Pacer, particularly after the team’s deep playoff run this past season, the front office made a surprising decision. Following Haliburton’s devastating Achilles injury and growing uncertainty about Indiana’s ability to contend in the immediate future, the franchise grew hesitant to enter the luxury tax. That financial caution ultimately paved the way for Turner’s departure.
Enter the Milwaukee Bucks.
The Bucks wasted no time capitalizing on Indiana’s hesitance. In a stunning and bold move, Milwaukee created the necessary cap space by waiving superstar guard Damian Lillard and choosing to stretch the remaining $113 million on his contract. The decision stunned fans and analysts alike, signaling a major course correction in the Bucks’ long-term roster strategy. While Lillard’s presence in Milwaukee had generated considerable excitement, the front office evidently saw Turner as a better long-term fit alongside two-time MVP Giannis Antetokounmpo.
And what a pairing it could be.
With Turner now in the mix, the Bucks have assembled what could be one of the league’s most formidable frontcourts. His defensive prowess, particularly as a rim protector, should complement Giannis’ all-around brilliance on both ends of the floor. Turner also brings a reliable outside shot — a rare skill set for a center — which could help stretch the floor and provide more room for Giannis to operate in the paint.
From a strategic standpoint, Turner adds both flexibility and depth to Milwaukee’s roster. He can anchor the defense, guard multiple positions, and knock down threes. More importantly, he gives the Bucks a younger defensive cornerstone as they retool around their franchise player.
The impact of this signing will be felt immediately. Not only does Turner’s arrival reinforce Milwaukee’s commitment to contending in the East, but it also disrupts the balance of power in the Central Division. With the Pacers losing their longtime anchor and the Bucks gaining one, the dynamic between these two rivals has shifted dramatically.
Whether this bold new direction will pay off in the postseason remains to be seen. But one thing is certain: the Central Division — and the Eastern Conference — just got a lot more interesting.