2. Patty Mills, San Antonio Spurs
Mills has spent the last decade as an ace reserve with the San Antonio Spurs, but considering that they will likely move forward with a young backcourt of Derrick White and Dejounte Murray, Gregg Popovich could finally say goodbye to the former Saint Mary’s star this offseason.
Over the last four seasons, Mills has averaged 10.5 points and 2.5 assists per game on 42% shooting and 38% from the 3-point line. Mills has to have impressed Durant when he dominated against Team USA for Australia in a tune-up leading up to the Olympics.
Patty Mills always shines in international competition. Just the facts. (via @spurs) pic.twitter.com/OueyauAKU0
— SLAM (@SLAMonline) July 13, 2021
Patty Mills could provide rock-solid scoring off of the bench for the Nets.
While Mills has made a habit of taking games over whenever he plays for his country, his production over the last few years should get the Nets interested, as he can handle the rock and shoot as a member of the second unit.
Mills isn’t going to make the Nets an amazing defensive team, but you don’t get heavy minutes for Popovich without some defensive acumen. Mills won’t cost a ton, has championship experience, and can stuff a stat sheet. The fit almost looks too perfect at face value.