After a decade-long stint with the Indiana Pacers, Myles Turner departed the team in free agency.
Entering free agency for the first time in his career, Myles Turner decided to sign a four-year, $107 million deal with the Milwaukee Bucks.
The decision came as a surprise, as Turner is coming off the heels of his first-ever NBA Finals run with the Pacers. But it feels like Turner made a calm, calculated decision.
Turner also made a huge promise to the Bucks ahead of his debut season with the franchise.
Photo by Justin Casterline/Getty ImagesMyles Turner makes ‘evolving’ announcement after joining Milwaukee Bucks
Turner joining the Pacers’ Eastern Conference rival is a surprising decision. Even Pacers head coach Rick Carlisle has faced embarrassment since Turner’s exit.
Adding salt to the wound was Turner’s recent interview with Dallas Mavericks star Kyrie Irving on YouTube.
“The way I view it is, I wanted to be thankful. Just for the people that rock with me, the entire time on this 10-year journey in Indiana. But I also let them realize that at this time, I made the best decision for my family.
“Made the best decision for myself going into my prime,” Turner said before Irving asked if there’s a better version of himself.
“Absolutely. Oh, brother, I’m evolving. We [NBA players] are all on the same path throughout this same journey in this league. Some people get it early. Some people get it late.
“I was blessed and fortunate enough to get it a couple of years ago, that this is not my best form.
“I’ve definitely changed as an individual, and I know I’m evolving towards my better self,” Turner added.
In simple terms, Turner promised that the Bucks would see a better version of himself than what the Pacers ever did.
Myles Turner says the Milwaukee Bucks ‘valued’ him more than the Indiana Pacers
Since departing the Pacers, Turner has spoken fondly of the Bucks. He also revealed his early communications with Giannis Antetokounmpo.
On the flip side, Turner has taken a dig at the Pacers. But what was the primary reason behind choosing the Bucks over a team where he had been since he was drafted into the NBA?
“I feel that Milwaukee valued me a bit more. And I think that they tried a little harder. But at the end of the day, it’s not for me to discuss right now,” Turner said on SiriusXM NBA Radio.
“I just know out of respect for that organization, out of respect for my incoming organization right now. It was an interesting process,” he added.
As Turner mentioned, it’s time to move on. Keeping that in mind, it will be interesting to see what he will bring to the Bucks from next season onwards.
Turner is joining Milwaukee after putting up 14.1 points, 6.8 rebounds, and 1.3 assists per game for the Pacers in the last 10 seasons.