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Philadelphia 76ers: Backup point guard options for Ben Simmons

By Simon Smith

Jan 11, 2017; Philadelphia, PA, USA; Philadelphia 76ers forward Ben Simmons practices prior to a game against the New York Knicks at Wells Fargo Center. Mandatory Credit: Bill Streicher-USA TODAY Sports
Jan 11, 2017; Philadelphia, PA, USA; Philadelphia 76ers forward Ben Simmons practices prior to a game against the New York Knicks at Wells Fargo Center. Mandatory Credit: Bill Streicher-USA TODAY Sports /
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Mandatory Credit: Troy Taormina-USA TODAY Sports
Mandatory Credit: Troy Taormina-USA TODAY Sports /

Patty Mills, San Antonio Spurs

A prototype spark off the bench, Mills’ game has evolved throughout his time in San Antonio. While Mills excels in an up-tempo game, his ability to also contribute in the Spurs’ primary half-court offense is an added bonus. And while his overall numbers aren’t quite as impressive as Collison’s, there is one area in which Mills has him covered comfortably – playoff experience.

A member of the 2014 championship winning Spurs, Mills has now played in 73 career playoff games over eight postseason trips. His importance in the Spurs’ current battle with the Golden State Warriors in the Western Conference Finals has never been higher due to the season-ending injury to starting point guard Tony Parker. In comparison, Collison has appeared 29 playoff games in three separate appearances.

This season, Mills averaged 9.5 points and 3.5 assists in 21.9 minutes per game. Starting in just eight of his 80 games, Mills shot an excellent 41.4 percent from three-point range. In his eight games as a starter, Mills raised his numbers to 12.1 points and 5.9 assists on 28.2 minutes per game.

At 28 and out of a contract, Mills is sure to attract a lot of attention from outside of San Antonio. In the midst of his prime but without an enormous mileage on his body, Mills’ free agency comes at a perfect time for the Sixers.

Furthermore, Mills’ existing relationship with coach Brown from his days in charge of the Australian Olympic team can only make the recruiting process a little easier.