Philadelphia 76ers: Backup point guard options for Ben Simmons

Decision time

Before pursuing a potential mentor and backup for Simmons, the Sixers’ resident point guards need to be addressed.

T.J. McConnell started in 51 of his 81 games, averaging 6.9 points and 6.6 assists. While he had an elite assist-to-turnover ratio of 3.36, McConnell shot an abysmal 20.0 percent from three-point range. He is currently contracted with the team until the end of the 2018-19 season (a team option in the final season) on a very team-friendly deal.

More from Hoops Habit

• The 5 most dominant NBA players who never won a championship
• 7 Players the Miami Heat might replace Herro with by the trade deadline
• Meet Cooper Flagg: The best American prospect since LeBron James
• Are the Miami Heat laying the groundwork for their next super team?
• Sophomore Jump: 5 second-year NBA players bound to breakout

The other point guard on the roster was veteran Sergio Rodriguez, who averaged 7.8 points and 5.1 assists. Starting 30 of his 68 games, Rodriguez shot a solid 36.5 percent from behind three. He is now out of contract having played on a one-year, $8 million deal. But soon to be 31 and a relative journeyman, it’s unclear if the Sixers will persist with Rodriguez.

Of the three candidates mentioned to provide experience and leadership, Mills appears to tick the most boxes. Now in his sixth season with the Spurs, like coach Brown, the learning he has experienced during his time in San Antonio will be invaluable moving forward.

With Brown, and the  Sixers franchise in general, trying to establish an elite culture and a certifiable identity, a player with Mills’ character and experience would be vital moving forward. And on the court, Mills’ ability play both on and off the ball would prove a terrific addition in the Sixers’ up-tempo style.

Next: 5 potential landing spots for Kyle Lowry in free agency

An expected contract in the three-year, $30 million range would be well worth the investment for Colangelo and the Sixers.