Veteran point guard Patty Mills has signed a one-year deal with the Utah Jazz, marking his 16th season in the league. At 36 years old, Mills is set to earn $3.3 million with a fully guaranteed contract for the upcoming season.
Mills began his NBA journey in 2009 as a second-round pick by the Portland Trail Blazers. Over the years, he has accumulated significant experience and accolades, including an NBA Championship with the San Antonio Spurs in 2014. His career has also seen him suiting up for the Brooklyn Nets, Atlanta Hawks, and Miami Heat. Outside the NBA, Mills has showcased his skills overseas in China and Australia.
Olympic Performance
In addition to his club career, Mills has been a mainstay for the Australian national team. Most recently, he participated in the 2024 Paris Olympics, putting up an impressive 16.5 points per game. Despite his strong performance, Australia fell to Serbia in the quarterfinals, a team led by the formidable Nikola Jokic.
Role with the Utah Jazz
The Utah Jazz, coming off a disappointing 31-51 season, are looking to rebuild and re-energize their roster. While Mills is not expected to start, his role will be crucial in providing experience and mentorship to younger players. Keyonte George is anticipated to take the starting point guard spot, with Collin Sexton starting alongside him. Jordan Clarkson is set to be the team’s sixth man, adding depth and scoring off the bench.
Mills’ versatile play will undoubtedly be an asset for the Jazz, offering instant offense and a steadying presence in clutch moments. The Jazz have also signed Johnny Juzang and Svi Mykhailiuk, and extended Lauri Markkanen’s contract, setting the stage for a mix of seasoned veterans and promising young talent.
Leadership and Off-the-Bench Impact
Expectations for Mills go beyond his on-court contributions. The Jazz organization and fanbase are hopeful that his leadership can guide the team’s younger players and foster a culture of resilience and competitiveness. Mills’ ability to step in and produce efficiently from the bench will be key in tight situations, where his experience in high-pressure games could tip the balance in Utah's favor.
The integration of Mills into the Jazz roster underscores the franchise’s strategy of blending seasoned experience with youthful potential. His signing may not be the blockbuster move of the season, but it's a calculated addition that fits into the broader vision of returning to playoff contention.
In summary, Patty Mills brings a wealth of experience, a winning pedigree, and invaluable leadership to the Utah Jazz. His contributions on and off the court are set to play a pivotal role in the team’s quest to bounce back from a challenging season and re-establish themselves as playoff contenders.