Veteran point guard Patty Mills has made headlines by inking a one-year, $3.3 million fully guaranteed contract with the Utah Jazz. This deal signifies Mills' 16th year in the NBA, adding another chapter to an illustrious career that began in 2009.
Career Overview
Mills' journey in professional basketball started when he was selected in the second round of the 2009 NBA Draft by the Portland Trail Blazers. Over the years, he has built a reputation as a reliable point guard, playing for renowned teams such as the San Antonio Spurs, Brooklyn Nets, Atlanta Hawks, and Miami Heat. Notably, Mills was part of the Spurs' 2014 NBA championship-winning team, a testament to his high-caliber performance and experience.
In addition to his contributions in the NBA, Mills has also showcased his talents on the international stage. He has played overseas in China and Australia, further honing his skills and gaining invaluable experience. Recently, Mills represented Australia in the 2024 Paris Olympics, where he averaged an impressive 16.5 points per game and led his team to the quarterfinals.
Role with the Utah Jazz
Despite his extensive experience and past success, Mills is not expected to take on a starting role for the Jazz. Instead, his primary responsibilities will involve providing experience and guidance to the younger players on the team. Mills' versatility and ability to offer instant offense off the bench will be a valuable asset as the Jazz strive to blend seasoned veterans with emerging talent.
The Utah Jazz, who finished the previous season with a 31-51 record, are in a period of rebuilding and restructuring. Keyonte George is anticipated to assume the starting point guard duties, with Collin Sexton slated to start alongside him. Jordan Clarkson is expected to continue as the team's sixth man, bringing his own brand of energy and scoring off the bench.
Team Additions and Expectations
In addition to signing Mills, the Jazz have made several other noteworthy moves in the off-season. They have secured the services of Johnny Juzang and Svi Mykhailiuk, further bolstering their roster. Lauri Markkanen, an important piece for the Jazz, has been given a contract extension, indicating the team's commitment to building around core players.
The Jazz organization is hopeful that the blend of experienced veterans like Mills and promising young players will propel the team back into playoff contention. Mills' presence is expected to be instrumental in this endeavor, providing both leadership and scoring prowess when needed.
While it remains to be seen how the new-look Jazz will perform in the coming season, the acquisition of Patty Mills adds a significant layer of depth and experience to the team's ranks, promising an interesting and competitive season ahead.