I think there are many reasons why it would make sense for Jon Horst and the Milwaukee Bucks to make a push for Myles Turner.
Obviously, the biggest revolves around the team’s current predicament at the center position with Brook Lopez recently having a back procedure done. Although unlikely, the Bucks could offer a deal centered around Donte DiVincenzo, Jordan Nwora, Lopez, and possibly draft compensation for the big man. With that said, let us take a look at three reasons why the Bucks would be wise to make a move for Turner this season.
The Milwaukee Bucks could offer Myles Turner a larger opportunity
Right now, Turner is splitting a lot of time and usage in the frontcourt with Domantas Sabonis, an All-Star big man. The question as to whether these two can co-exist has hovered for years, and it looks like Turner wants to play a bigger role. The dynamic would be different playing in Milwaukee alongside players such as Giannis Antetokounmpo and Bobby Portis, but Turner would have a clear-cut starting center role.
In a recent interview with The Athletic’s Jared Weiss (subscription required), Turner discussed how he believes he is being undervalued in Indiana. He believes they see him as nothing more than a glorified role player, and he wants a bigger opportunity to showcase that he is more than that. He would have that opportunity with the Bucks.
Looking at Lopez’s time with the Milwaukee Bucks since 2018 it’s easy to see that Turner could have consistent playing time and usage while having an important role on a championship-contending team. In three seasons Brook Lopez is averaging 27.5 minutes per game while over the age of 30. Myles Turner is playing 29 minutes per game this season and is only 25 so there’s no reason those 29 minutes couldn’t be played in Milwaukee.
Looking at usage rates thanks to Stathead, in his three seasons with Milwaukee, Lopez’s usage rate is 17.3 percent. This year in Indiana, Turner’s usage rate sits at 16.8 percent. Turner would certainly have more opportunity with the Bucks, especially when you factor in his age and effectiveness, but more on that later.