Bucks keeping Myles Turner has overlooked benefits long and short term

Once Giannis Antetokounmpo bounced, many wondered if the Milwaukee Bucks would look to move Myles Turner next. Whether they wanted to trade him or not, it looks like Turner is sticking around with the Bucks for the time being. That's actually not a bad thing, as his presence both on and off the court could have great benefits for the Bucks as they aim to win and develop the next generation of talent.

Turner will be a useful piece to the Bucks

While many teams pivot to a full-scale rebuild after trading away their superstar, the Milwaukee Bucks will not follow suit. Really, they can't. Their pick goes to the New Orleans Pelicans, so they will not take home the silver lining of a potentially high draft pick if they are not good this season. This team needs to compete every game, and a proven center like Turner helps them do that more often than not.

There is also the development aspect. Turner might not have a long-term future with the team, but he can be useful to those who do. As one of three players over the age of 30 on the roster, Turner has his share of NBA experience and can pass that knowledge down to the youngsters. Kel'el Ware should be close to Turner often, as he could be his successor in due time.

Building on that is the leadership aspect. Turner has already done an excellent job in that regard after he hosted teammates for a getaway in Texas recently. Last year, it was clear that the Milwaukee Bucks had issues both on and off the floor. Right off the bat, Turner is doing what he can to bring this group close together and get the wheels turning on forging chemistry, as any good leader would.

All of this could help the team succeed both immediately and in the distant future.

Turner's long-term future is uncertain

Though Turner will almost certainly begin the season as Milwaukee's starting five, the Bucks could evaluate his fit long-term as the year goes on. Even if they wanted to trade him right now, his value isn't high, so the team would move him for pennies on the dollar. If he bounces back after his poor showing in 2025-26, interest could suddenly be real, and offers could flood in.

For now, though, all eyes are solely focused on the present. The Milwaukee Bucks don't have too many external believers at the moment, but none of that matters. This team appears fired up to kick off the new era of Bucks basketball, and Turner looks like he will be a key cog in it.

Stay tuned for more Milwaukee Bucks analysis.

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