By Johnny Askounis/ info@eurohoops.net
A huge part of his contract for the 2025-26 season evaporated as Vasilije Micic reached a buyout agreement with the Milwaukee Bucks.
With the deal becoming official on Monday evening, additional details were reported by multiple North American media outlets, including Bucks insider Eric Nehm. Specifically, 31-year-old Micic released $ 6.1 million from a total of $ 8.1 million on his contract for the 2025-26 season. A favorable agreement for the Bucks, in terms of balancing the salary cap amid more offseason moves, while the motivation of the player was being able to pursue other opportunities as a free agent.
Following two years and 101 appearances in the NBA, between the Charlotte Hornets, Oklahoma City Thunder, and Phoenix Suns, Micic is expected to return to the EuroLeague. Potential suitors include defending champion Fenerbahce Beko, but more teams can approach as he officially enters the free-agent market.
Completing more expected moves on Monday, the Bucks waived 34-year-old Damian Lillard and added 29-year-old Myles Turner, also re-signing 30-year-old Bobby Portis Jr.
Elsewhere in the league, a three-team trade sending Latvian Kristaps Porzingis to the Atlanta Hawks was officially confirmed. In another departure from the Boston Celtics, Jrue Holiday was officially traded to the Portland Trail Blazers. On the opposite direction, the C’s formally welcomed Bosnian Luka Garza.
Trades shifting German Dennis Schroder and Italian Simone Fontecchio to the Sacramento Kings and Miami Heat, respectively, also became official.
In addition, the Orlando Magic officially re-signed German forward Moritz Wagner.