Veteran point guard Patty Mills has secured a one-year contract with the Utah Jazz, bringing his wealth of experience and expertise to Salt Lake City. The 36-year-old Australian player will earn $3.3 million on a fully guaranteed deal for the upcoming season, marking his 16th year in the NBA.
Journey Through the NBA
Mills' basketball journey began in 2009 when he was a second-round pick by the Portland Trail Blazers. Over his illustrious career, Mills has suited up for several NBA teams, including the San Antonio Spurs, Brooklyn Nets, Atlanta Hawks, and Miami Heat. Notably, Mills was a key contributor to the Spurs' 2014 NBA championship team, further solidifying his reputation as a clutch performer.
In addition to his NBA career, Mills has played internationally, with stints in China and Australia, showcasing his versatility and global appeal as a player.
Olympic Stint
Recently, Mills represented Australia in the 2024 Paris Olympics, where he averaged an impressive 16.5 points per game. Despite his standout performances, Australia was bested in the quarterfinals by a formidable Serbian team led by NBA star Nikola Jokic. Australia’s progress to the quarterfinals highlighted Mills' role as a pivotal player on the international stage.
Expectations with the Jazz
The Utah Jazz, finishing last season with a 31-51 record, are looking to rebound and make a strong push for playoff contention. With a promising mix of veterans and young talent, the Jazz have high hopes for their upcoming season. Keyonte George is expected to take on the starting point guard duties, with Collin Sexton slated to start alongside him and Jordan Clarkson serving as the team's sixth man.
Additionally, the Jazz have bolstered their roster by signing Johnny Juzang and Svi Mykhailiuk, and have secured a contract extension for Lauri Markkanen. Despite these moves, Mills isn’t expected to start. Instead, the Jazz are counting on him to bring his extensive experience to the locker room, guiding and mentoring the younger players.
Role and Contribution
Mills’ role with the Jazz extends beyond his court performance. As a seasoned player, he is expected to offer instant offense off the bench and provide leadership and stability to the team. His versatility as a guard allows him to adapt to various playing styles, making him a valuable asset in different game situations.
The Jazz are banking on the blend of experienced veterans like Mills and rising stars to create a dynamic and competitive roster. By integrating Mills into their lineup, they aim to not only improve their record but also to foster a culture of growth and resilience.
Mills’ addition to the Jazz is a strategic move aimed at enhancing both the performance and the mentality of the team. His championship pedigree and international experience bring a unique perspective that is likely to benefit the Jazz in their quest for success in the forthcoming season.
As the season progresses, it will be interesting to see how Mills’ role evolves and how his presence impacts the young roster. The Jazz's ambition to return to playoff contention is clear, and with Mills’ guidance and on-court contributions, they are better positioned to achieve their goals.