Myles Turner has left a negative impact on the Indiana Pacers' franchise since his departure earlier this offseason. Unfortunately for him and the fanbase, things may have only gotten worse after his latest comments.
The new Milwaukee Bucks big man recently spoke about being with the team. In doing so, he said that he is excited about playing for "a championship organization." Given that the Pacers were just one win away from an NBA Championship about two months ago, this message understandably left a sour taste in the mouths of the fans.
"It feels amazing, man. Honestly, man, I've had some good times in this city, and now to be a part of the organization, you know, the rich history behind it. Just knowing you're part of a championship organization. That means everything to me," Turner said.
The Bucks have two NBA titles to their name, including one after winning it all in 2021. Even so, many fans took this as a direct shot at his former team.
As it stands, the Pacers and their fans already have some ill will towards Turner, and that has not changed. Fortunately for the team, they know exactly when they will have an opportunity to go head-to-head with the Texas native next season.
There is clearly no love lost after Turner's exit, and with his latest comments, that sentiment has only grown.
The Pacers will look completely different without Myles Turner
There were always pros and cons to Indiana potentially re-signing their long-time big man this offseason. On one hand, he was a fantastic fit in the team's system and was a fan favorite. However, on the flip side, he showed signs of regression (i.e., his performance in the 2025 NBA Finals), and bringing him back would have pushed the team into the luxury tax for the first time in two decades.
Regardless of whether it is a good or bad thing the Pacers no longer have Turner on the roster, one thing is certain: they are going to be a different team without him.
Despite his flaws, the 29-year-old had a unique skillset that worked perfectly in Indiana. He was great at stretching the floor, protecting the rim, and running the court. There are not many other big men in the NBA who can do what he does at the level he does.
Turner was far from a perfect player, and that was evident numerous times last season. However, he was a fantastic fit next to Pascal Siakam in the frontcourt, and he was the right center to pair with Tyrese Haliburton. With him no longer on the roster, the Pacers need to figure out how they are going to move forward and replace him.
As it stands, the Pacers are expected to run a committee at center with a combination of Jay Huff, Isaiah Jackson, James Wiseman, and Tony Bradley. Though this isn't ideal, and it is unclear if this will be enough to replace Turner, it is probably Indiana's best option. Finding a one-for-one replacement for their former big man will be incredibly difficult, especially this offseason. If they can find a way to make it work by relying on multiple options, then that could be good enough for the team to not skip a beat.
The Pacers are in a strange situation, but they are still in a good spot overall. They have what it takes to compete in the long run, even without Turner. However, it is fair to assume they are going to go through their ups and downs as they navigate through life without him, but once they figure it out, they will have an opportunity to prove to Turner that he made the wrong decision by leaving the team high and dry.