Lillard’s stretch-attack on his contract shapes Milwaukee’s cap and playoff window, balancing risk of dead money with a chance to maximize Giannis’ remaining prime. The Achilles injury adds caution on the 2025-26 impact, while the long-term deal preserves flexibility into the late 2020s.

Lillard’s departure opens cap and roster flexibility for Milwaukee but creates a leadership and playmaking void that Quickley could address via a new lead guard role.

Lillard's Achilles injury makes him a complicated asset for 2025-26, shifting Bucks' trade value dynamics. Milwaukee pivoted by clearing cap space to land Turner and add Anthony and Harris, aiming to preserve Giannis's prime window. Lillard's near-term value takes a hit, but if healthy in the future he could regain max-contract upside, influencing fantasy upside and trade conversations around the Bucks this season.

Lillard’s exit from Milwaukee to make room for Turner signals a reshaped backcourt and a pivot away from a two-star nucleus. Fantasy impact centers on reduced backcourt depth and a shift toward Giannis-dominated offense. Lillard’s absence also flips opportunities for early-season breakout guards as Milwaukee recalibrates.

Lillard’s status as Bucks' waiver subject adds a layer of drama to Milwaukee’s summer. His presence would have shifted defensive schemes and scoring dynamics; with him waived, the fantasy landscape shifts toward a more fluid backcourt and potential trades. The situation injects uncertainty around immediate rotation and team identity as the Bucks reassess how to maintain contention while preserving Giannis’s long-term plan.