Patty Mills Joins Utah Jazz on One-Year Deal
Veteran point guard Patty Mills has signed a one-year contract with the Utah Jazz, marking his 16th year in the NBA. The 36-year-old will earn $3.3 million in a fully guaranteed deal for the upcoming season. Known for his leadership and scoring ability off the bench, Mills brings a wealth of experience to a young Jazz roster aiming to rebound from a disappointing previous season.
An Experienced Journeyman
Selected by the Portland Trail Blazers in the second round of the 2009 NBA Draft, Mills has enjoyed a storied career with several teams. He was a key member of the San Antonio Spurs' 2014 NBA championship team and has also played for the Brooklyn Nets, Atlanta Hawks, and Miami Heat. His international career is equally impressive, having played overseas in China and Australia.
Recently, Mills showcased his skills on the global stage during the 2024 Paris Olympics, representing Australia. He averaged 16.5 points per game, helping his team reach the quarterfinals before being eliminated by Serbia, led by Nikola Jokic. Mills' performance further solidified his reputation as a reliable scorer and playmaker.
Role and Expectations with the Jazz
Despite his extensive experience, Mills is not expected to start for the Jazz. Instead, he will likely come off the bench, providing crucial mentorship to younger players and instant offense when needed. The Jazz have a budding backcourt partnership in Keyonte George, who is set to take on the starting point guard role, and Collin Sexton. Additionally, Jordan Clarkson will continue in his role as the team's sixth man.
“Mills' versatility will be an asset for the Jazz,” an insider noted. His ability to adapt to different roles on the court will be invaluable, particularly as the team navigates the long NBA season.
Offseason Moves and Future Outlook
The Jazz have been active this offseason, seeking to build a balanced team of veterans and young talent. Alongside Mills, they have signed Johnny Juzang and Svi Mykhailiuk. Additionally, Lauri Markkanen has been given a contract extension, signaling the team's commitment to developing a competitive roster.
Last season, the Jazz finished with a 31-51 record, falling short of playoff contention. The organization hopes that the blend of experienced players like Mills and emerging talents will propel them back into the playoff picture. Mills' role in guiding younger teammates and contributing valuable points off the bench is seen as a crucial component of this strategy.
Patty Mills' signing reflects the Jazz's broader strategy of combining seasoned veterans with promising young players. As the franchise looks to improve on last year’s performance, they are banking on Mills' experience and versatility to help steer them back to prominence. His contributions, both on and off the court, will be closely watched as the new season unfolds.