Why Myles Turner Left the Pacers: Inside the Surprising Offseason Move
By Independent Rob | July 5, 2025
After spending his entire 9-year career with the Indiana Pacers, Myles Turner has officially left the franchise, and fans are stunned. Turner is now a Milwaukee Buck, signing a 4-year, $107 million deal that includes a player option and trade kicker. But why did he leave a team that just made a Finals run?
A Pacers Mainstay Wanted to Stay
Sources close to Turner revealed he genuinely wanted to remain in Indiana. He loved the city, embraced his role, and believed in the Pacers’ young core. But when it came time to talk contracts, the Pacers didn’t show the same level of commitment.
The Offer That Fell Short
Indiana reportedly capped their offer at $20 million per year for three years. That deal would have kept the team under the luxury tax threshold—a move that many insiders criticized as shortsighted, especially after Turner anchored the Pacers’ defense during their deep playoff run.
Enter the Bucks: A Better Deal and a Championship Window
The Milwaukee Bucks, meanwhile, were aggressive. They restructured contracts, waived veterans, and opened up space to bring Turner in. Their offer? A 4-year, $107 million deal—roughly $27 million per year—with added incentives and flexibility.
That wasn’t just money. It was respect. It was a belief in his game.
Fan & Analyst Reactions
The backlash against the Pacers was swift. Some fans criticized the front office for being “cheap” by letting a core player walk. Analysts were even harsher.
“You don’t make the Finals and then let your rim protector go over a few million dollars,” one rival GM told The Athletic.
What This Means Moving Forward
The Pacers now have a Turner-sized hole in their frontcourt—and a trust issue with fans. Meanwhile, the Bucks gain a versatile big man to play alongside Giannis and help stretch the floor.
Myles Turner didn’t walk away from Indiana.
Indiana didn’t step up.
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