Myles Turner to Bucks: Analysis and Grades of NBA Free Agency

NBA Free Agency 2025: Stellar Moves and Detailed Analysis

The NBA free agency has started strong, and teams are already reinforcing their rosters for the 2025-26 season. Here are the most impactful signings so far, with exclusive analysis and ratings from Alofoke Deportes.

• Myles Turner to the Milwaukee Bucks.
• Maximum extensions for Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Jaren Jackson Jr.
• New contract for James Harden with the LA Clippers.
• Player option for $52.6 million for LeBron James with the Los Angeles Lakers.

As more agreements are confirmed, Alofoke Deportes will offer you ratings and in-depth analysis on the impact of each move for the 2025-26 season and beyond.

Myles Turner to the Milwaukee Bucks: A Surprising Signing

The Milwaukee Bucks have reached an agreement with Myles Turner for four years and $107 million. This is undoubtedly one of the most impactful news of free agency, even surpassing the trade of Paul George to the Clippers in 2019. Turner, who seemed destined to renew with the Indiana Pacers, now joins the Bucks, a team that initially seemed focused on more modest moves. With Giannis Antetokounmpo monitoring the situation to assess his future, the Bucks have bet big. The departure of Damian Lillard, whose contract will be extended for five seasons, freed up salary space for this signing. To finalize the agreement, Milwaukee also agreed to a trade with the Charlotte Hornets, sending Pat Connaughton in exchange for Vasilije Micic. Turner, with his ability to protect the rim and spread the floor, is seen as a younger version of Brook Lopez, fitting perfectly with Antetokounmpo. Turner is coming off his best season in three-point shooting, averaging 2.2 per game with 40% effectiveness. Although he doesn’t have the same defensive level as Lopez, his presence in the paint is crucial. In the playoffs, Turner proved his worth, averaging 16.8 points and 2.2 blocks per game against the Bucks. However, the Bucks still need to improve their play on the wings, where Kyle Kuzma and Taurean Prince did not perform as expected. If the Bucks aspire to the championship, it is essential that they improve this area. Rating: B-

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander Secures His Future with OKC

The Oklahoma City Thunder have agreed to a four-year supermax extension with Shai Gilgeous-Alexander. This move ensures the continuity of one of the league’s rising stars. The supermax extension, which was added to the collective agreement in 2017, is a clear advantage for the Thunder. Although Gilgeous-Alexander could have considered a slightly lower contract, he has proven to be worth every penny. The Thunder have planned strategically, ensuring financial flexibility to keep their stars. Jalen Williams and Chet Holmgren are also eligible for contract extensions, further strengthening the team. The Thunder have accumulated an impressive number of first-round picks, which will allow them to continue competing during Gilgeous-Alexander’s peak performance years. Rating: Approved

Jakob Poeltl Re-signs with Toronto; Mamukelashvili Bolsters the Bench

The Toronto Raptors have extended Jakob Poeltl’s contract for four years and $104 million, in addition to signing Sandro Mamukelashvili for two years and $5.5 million. Poeltl, who arrived at the Raptors in 2023, has been valued as a high-level starter. Although his impact on the game is significant, the long-term renewal raises questions. Poeltl, at 32 years old, could see his performance decline. Poeltl’s rim protection hasn’t been as effective since he returned to Toronto. The Raptors seem to be investing in a core that has yet to prove capable of competing in the playoffs. Regarding Mamukelashvili, his signing is promising. His scoring ability and improvement in three-point shooting make him a valuable addition to the bench.

Grades:

• Poeltl: Incomplete
• Mamukelashvili: B+

Dennis Schroder Strengthens the Sacramento Kings

The Sacramento Kings have signed Dennis Schroder to a three-year, $45 million contract. Although the general manager, Scott Perry, identified the need for a playmaker, Schroder’s signing does not seem to be the most effective solution. The Kings already had several players capable of handling the ball. Sacramento’s offense, although it improved after the All-Star break, was not the team’s biggest problem. Schroder could provide defensive pressure, but also diminishes the size of the team. His performance has varied, largely depending on his three-point shooting percentage. Furthermore, Schroder’s signing forced the Kings to trade Jonas Valanciunas, which represents a loss in production. A one-year contract with Tyus Jones might have been a better option. Rating: C-

Jaren Jackson Jr. Secures a Million-Dollar Contract with Memphis

The Memphis Grizzlies have agreed to a five-year, $240 million extension with Jaren Jackson Jr., in addition to renewing Santi Aldama. Securing Jackson was a priority for Memphis. Renegotiating Jackson’s contract allowed the Grizzlies to offer a more competitive extension. Jackson, who didn’t get the supermax extension, secures his financial future and the team’s stability. Although the Marcus Smart trade cost a first-round pick, the decision seems to have been worth it. To complete the deal, Memphis might need to free up cap space, possibly by trading Cole Anthony. Aldama, for his part, will remain a key piece of the team.

Grades:

• Jackson: Approved
• Aldama: B-

Hawks Bolster Roster with Alexander-Walker and Kennard

The Atlanta Hawks have signed Nickeil Alexander-Walker for four years and $62 million, and Luke Kennard for one year and $11 million. Alexander-Walker, after a standout performance in the playoffs, has increased his value. His ability to defend and make three-pointers makes him a valuable asset. The Hawks used the $25 million trade exception from the Dejounte Murray trade to secure Alexander-Walker.

Grades:

• Alexander-Walker: A-
• Kennard: B