Myles Turner hasn’t even stepped on the court for the Milwaukee Bucks yet, but he’s already stirring up excitement in the Cream City. After inking a four-year, $108.9 million deal with Milwaukee, the veteran center finally tackled the burning question everyone’s been asking: What kind of chemistry does he expect with Giannis Antetokounmpo, and have these two superstars even talked yet?
How Will Myles Turner and Giannis Antetokounmpo’s Partnership Develop?
According to Bucks beat reporter Eric Nehm, Turner revealed that while communication with Antetokounmpo has been limited so far, he’s confident about how their partnership will take shape.
“We texted back just a little bit, but he was on vacation and I was on vacation, so I know how that go,” Turner said. “I’m sure we’re gonna talk here in the weeks to come.”
The two-time blocks leader went on to express optimism about their pairing and pointed out just how well he expects their styles to complement each other.
“I’ve played against Giannis for quite some time now. You know, four, five times a year and a couple years ago, we played them nine, 10 times or whatever it was. Very familiar with his game and what he’s capable of. I do see a seamless fit as well.”
Myles Turner, on his communication with Giannis Antetokounmpo and his fit alongside Antetokounmpo: pic.twitter.com/5pmeM9aAin
— Eric Nehm (@eric_nehm) July 11, 2025
Turner didn’t stop there. He broke down exactly why the fit works on both ends of the floor.
“He’s someone that is able to push the ball, get out in transition, create for the people, he’s developed a jumper. I mean, obviously, defensively, his intangibles are there. And yeah, I think our fit is going to be a pretty cohesive fit.”
What makes this partnership even more intriguing is the history between these two players. Turner and the Pacers had consistently been a roadblock in the Bucks’ pursuit of a title over the past two seasons. In the 2025 Eastern Conference First Round alone, Turner averaged 16.8 points, 4.8 rebounds, and 2.2 blocks across five games against Milwaukee, helping the Pacers knock them out of the playoffs once again.
Playing a central role in both postseason exits, Turner directly contributed to eliminating the Bucks in back-to-back years, effectively derailing Antetokounmpo’s hopes of capturing another championship ring. Now, in a twist of fate, he joins the very team he helped defeat, this time aiming to elevate their title chances from within.
The new Bucks center joked about how physically exhausting it used to be playing against Antetokounmpo.
#Bucks Myles Turner talks playing w/Giannis and jokes:
“I was tired of taking them damn shoulders and elbows to my chest every play… it’s a rarity in this league that you get to be alongside a generational player, arguably one of the greatest players to play this game.”
— Lily Zhao (@LilySZhao) July 11, 2025
“I was tired of taking them damn shoulders and elbows to my chest every play,” Turner said with a laugh. “It’s a rarity in this league that you get to be alongside a generational player, arguably one of the greatest players to play this game.”
What Does Turner’s Arrival Mean Amid Antetokounmpo Trade Speculation?
However, while Turner is excited to share the court with Antetokounmpo, the Greek Freak might be seeking his way out of Milwaukee. Turner’s comments come amid lingering speculation about Antetokounmpo’s long-term future in Milwaukee.
While the 2021 NBA champion has not made any formal trade request, his comments in recent months about prioritizing winning have fueled speculation, especially after the Bucks’ early playoff exits.
MYLES TURNER OVER GIANNIS ANTETOKOUNMPO 😱😱😱#NBA #NBAX pic.twitter.com/UR5wm8rqRK
— Vendetta Media (@VendettaVSM) December 7, 2023
By bringing in Turner, who is coming off a trip to the NBA Finals with the Pacers, the Bucks are signaling their intent to stay competitive now. Turner replaces Brook Lopez and brings added mobility, rim protection, and perimeter shooting to Milwaukee’s frontcourt.
The pairing with Antetokounmpo could be one of the league’s most intriguing frontcourt combinations. If both stars stay healthy and committed, the Bucks may have reset their championship window just in time.
