Myles Turner’s future in Milwaukee may not be settled for long, and the NBA trade market could put the Bucks right back in the spotlight.
For the moment, Turner appears safe after the Bucks traded Giannis Antetokounmpo, but that doesn’t mean his name will stay quiet as the trade deadline gets closer. If Milwaukee were to make him available, there’s a case that Turner could draw real interest simply because the center market looks thin in 2027 free agency.
That’s the key piece here: there may not be many appealing options for teams looking to upgrade in the middle. Beyond Nikola Jokic, Anthony Davis, Karl-Anthony Towns, and Rudy Gobert - all of whom will likely sign new extensions with their current teams - the class doesn’t offer much star power. Most of what’s out there looks like role players or younger big men with team options their clubs are expected to pick up, including Bucks youngster Kel'el Ware.
That leaves teams staring at a group that includes Isaiah Stewart, Deandre Ayton, Andre Drummond, Jock Landale, and a few others. Solid players, sure.
But not the kind of names that change a team’s outlook. If a club wants a true starting center next summer, the options may be limited.
That’s where Turner starts to look more interesting.
Right now, though, his value around the league isn’t especially strong. After a rough first season in Milwaukee, some teams may check in on him, but the sense is that he’d be more of a salary dump than a prized trade chip. That could shift if he puts together a strong rebound season.
And the Bucks have reasons to believe that bounce-back is possible. Taylor Jenkins looks like a clear upgrade at head coach over Doc Rivers, who never really found the right way to bring Turner along. One of Jenkins’ biggest jobs should be getting Turner back on track and reminding everyone why he’s still considered one of the league’s better centers.
If Turner does rediscover that form, Milwaukee would have a decision to make. The Bucks could keep him and try to build with him, or they could use their pivot toward youth to explore trade talks.
But if they go that route, they’d need a real return. Turner’s play this season will decide how much leverage the Bucks have.
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