Mills turning up Heat for Olympics

Patty Mills has joined the Miami Heat for the rest of the NBA season in a major boost for the Australian Boomers ahead of this year’s Paris Olympics.

Mills became a free agent late last week after the Atlanta Hawks waived him following 19 games off the bench for the franchise this season. There were fears the legendary Australian could be forced to sign overseas in a bid to receive court time leading into July’s Paris Games.

Thankfully, Mills will remain in the NBA after penning a deal with a Heat team that has the potential to go on a deep playoff run.

Boomers coach Brian Goorjian said he was pleased Mills had linked up with one of the NBA’s strongest organisations, with the Pat Riley-Erik Spoelstra GMcoach combination among the league’s most successful.

“Great news about Patty, he joins a great organisation and I am sure they will use the benefits Patty provides on the court and in the locker room,” Goorjian said.

“It’s an opportunity for Patty to play, which is great for Boomers on all fronts.”

Miami has been ravaged by injuries for most of the season – but when fully fit the likes of Jimmy Butler, Bam Adebayo and Tyler Herro are capable of beating any team.

The Heat made the NBA Finals last season before losing the series 4-1 to the Denver Nuggets.

Mills, 35, will provide Miami with valuable bench depth and playoff experience.

The Boomers captain has played 95 playoff games in his 15-year NBA career, while he was part of the San Antonio side that defeated the Heat to win the 2014 championship.

Mills will also provide Miami with potent threepoint shooting and strong leadership.

Australia’s pre-Paris Olympic camp starts in early July, so the timing of the team’s veteran guard joining the Heat is perfect for the national team’s preparations.

Mills is expected to receive decent court time off the bench for Miami – which will thrill Boomers coach Brian Goorjian ahead of a crucial Games campaign.