NBA Rumors: Damian Lillard linked to Miami Heat after being waived by Milwaukee

One of the most shocking news of free agency was the Milwaukee Bucks waiving Damian Lillard despite two years remaining on his expensive contract. The latest NBA rumors suggest the Miami Heat are interested in Lillard, who is recovering from a torn Achilles tendon.

According to Tim Reynolds of The Associated Press, the Heat are expected to pursue Lillard in free agency once he clears waivers. Miami was his preferred destination two years ago before the Bucks pulled the trigger and paired him with Giannis Antetokounmpo.

Reynolds added that the Heat will not be the only team interested in the nine-time NBA All-Star. He did not mention specific teams but noted that Lillard holds the cards on where he wants to play next. He is expected to miss the entirety of next season but will be on a much cheaper contract.

The Milwaukee Bucks decided to waive Lillard to save cap space, agreeing to a historic stretch provision. Lillard was set to earn $113 million over the final two years of his contract, which was stretched to $22.5 million per year over the next five years.

It’s not a bad deal for Lillard, who can sign with any team he wants while still earning from his Bucks contract. The move freed up cap space for Milwaukee, allowing them to make some signings, such as bringing back Gary Trent Jr. and Kevin Porter Jr.

However, the bigger move was signing Myles Turner away from Indiana to a four-year, $107 million contract. Turner replaces Brook Lopez, who joined the Los Angeles Clippers on a two-year deal.

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Damian Lillard reacts to getting waived by Milwaukee

Damian Lillard reacts to getting waived by Milwaukee. (Photo: IMAGN)

While it was shocking to see the Milwaukee Bucks waive an all-time great in Damian Lillard, it was probably the right move to remain competitive and flexible. They now have a solid team around Giannis Antetokounmpo, who was reportedly upset by the Lillard decision.

Nevertheless, the NBA 75 member is moving on after dropping his latest post on Instagram. Lillard shared an image of himself leaving an establishment while dropping two hashtags: #ToBeContinued and #LillardUniversity.

Lillard holds the key to his future and can choose any team that wants him in free agency. He will likely pick a franchise that welcomes him with open arms and supports him throughout his recovery from a torn Achilles tendon.