Myles Turner was a high-profile player who joined the Milwaukee Bucks from the Indiana Pacers in the offseason.
The Milwaukee Bucks took a big leap forward in free agency with their decision to waive Dame Lillard for a stretch.
The Milwaukee Bucks signed Myles Turner in free agency, taking him away from last season’s NBA finalist Indiana Pacers.
Veteran teammate Bobby Portis said he was impressed and a little surprised by the new contract.
Milwaukee Bucks star Bobby Portis told Run It Back TV that he feels lucky the team was able to sign Myles Turner.
Portis referenced the battle between the Pacers and Bucks over the past two seasons. Indiana eliminated Milwaukee in back-to-back seasons.
“It’s actually kind of refreshing. We’re adding a player who has had a rivalry with the Pacers over the last two seasons.
“I’ve played against him a lot and I’ve had to game plan for him and I have the utmost respect for him. He’s been a tough cover for our defense the last few years. So to be able to add him to our team and me and him and Giannis turning 30 at the same time, we can grow together.”
Portis added that he never realized how vocal he was, even though he confronted Turner many times.
“I didn’t know he talked so much. He does talk, so that was a great addition.”
“I thought he was a quiet guy, and it’s always great to have another vocal person leading young people.
“We went from being the oldest team last year to being a young team in the bottom 10, so (we) try to coach the players and coach them as much as we can.
“We got off to a good start. We know this season is very important for us.”
During the NBA preseason, Myles Turner also used the word “refresh” when talking about the Milwaukee Bucks’ changes.
He said playing alongside Giannis Antetokounmpo will create more space on offense.
“It’s a very refreshing feeling. The players on this team are encouraging me to shoot and let it go. Giannis (Antetokounmpo), he needs a lot of attention.”
No one is seriously considering the Bucs as a contender this season, but it’s a scenario Turner is used to with the Pacers. There may be some surprises.