Sports

5 Landing Spots for Myles Turner as Bucks Rumored to Blow Up Roster Amid Giannis Antetokounmpo Exit Buzz

Center Myles Turner’s first season with the Milwaukee Bucks might come to an end. According to league insider Jake Fischer on Friday, the Bucks could experience a roster overhaul if Giannis Antetokounmpo gets traded, with Turner among the players to watch.

ESPN’s insider Shams Charania on Wednesday reported that Antetokounmpo and his agent, Alex Saratsis began discussing the two-time MVP’s future. A resolution is, however, expected in the coming weeks and many in the league believe that a departure will trigger a mass exodus.

“Giannis Antetokounmpo and his agent Alex Saratsis have started conversations with the Milwaukee Bucks about the two-time NBA MVP’s future,” Charania tweeted. “A resolution is expected in the coming weeks.”

Turner, who signed with the Bucks from the Indiana Pacers during the offseason, is joined by Kyle Kuzma and Bobby Portis as the players who might move. The former Texas Longhorns star was signed to anchor the team’s backcourt alongside Giannis Antetokounmpo, but an exit of the Greek Freak might see his $108.86 million contract as expendable.

All this depends on Antetokounmpo’s decision. If he decides to leave and Turner gets traded, where would he likely end up? Let’s take a look at the top five landing spots for Bucks center Myles Turner if Milwaukee opts for a rebuild.


Top Five Landing Spots for Center Myles Turner

#5. Miami Heat

The Miami Heat (14-9) are in the fifth spot, one of the teams linked to Myles Turner in recent trade rumors. Starting center Bam Adebayo had to play the forward position against the Orlando Magic on Friday, and the outcome of the game, losing 106-106, may just convince the Heat that adding a stretch big and rim protector could improve their odds.

NBA: Milwaukee Bucks at Miami Heat - Source: Imagn
NBA: Milwaukee Bucks at Miami Heat – Source: Imagn

The only stumbling block to this move might be the Heat’s unwillingness to part with young assets. However, on the part of Milwaukee, trading Turner to the Heat would convert his heavy contract into future draft assets.


#4. Boston Celtics

The Celtics lost their championship-winning team during the offseason and had to deal with Jayson Tatum’s injury. Myles Turner to Boston is listed as a “dream” addition if they want to boost their frontcourt.

NBA: Milwaukee Bucks at New York Knicks - Source: Imagn
NBA: Milwaukee Bucks at New York Knicks – Source: Imagn

The Celtics could offer a mix of expiring deals and picks to match his salary. Turner’s addition will boost their floor spacing and shot-blocking, and at the same time allow him to join a contender.


#3. Atlanta Hawks

The Atlanta Hawks (13-11) come in third on the list. They could reignite their interests in Myles Turner as they have the financial flexibility to take on his contract due to their multiple trade exceptions and still be under the luxury-tax line for 2025-26 despite being over the salary cap.

Indiana Pacers v Atlanta Hawks - Source: Getty
Indiana Pacers v Atlanta Hawks – Source: Getty

Pairing Turner with the Hawks’ young forward would raise their floor defensively. It could also add a true-rim protector but it may come at a cost to the Hawks, who would have to offer future picks and young assets.


#2. Golden State Warriors

Myles Turner’s name will excite the Golden State Warriors’ front office. He is seen as an ideal fit if the Dubs want to add an experienced two-way center without the limitations of Father Time.

His 39.0% from the 3-point line and 2.2 blocks per game will match their style of play. Acquiring him might see the Warriors give up Jonathan Kuminga, who might be excited about leaving for an organization where he can be the main star, but gain a player who will solve their frontcourt size and defensive issues.


#1. LA Lakers

No other team will be excited about this than the LA Lakers. Myles Turner was reportedly a top target for the Lakers during the offseason for a sign-and-trade deal when he was a free agent.

Los Angeles Lakers v Milwaukee Bucks - Source: Getty
Los Angeles Lakers v Milwaukee Bucks – Source: Getty

He would add depth to their front court and provide competition to starting center Deandre Ayton. Acquiring him will not be difficult as the Lakers could offer the Bucks veteran contracts and picks.