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NBA Free Agency 2017: 5 offseason targets for the Charlotte Hornets

By Akash Anavarathan

Apr 4, 2017; Washington, DC, USA; Charlotte Hornets head coach Steve Clifford reacts on the bench against the Washington Wizards in the third quarter at Verizon Center. The Wizards won 118-111. Mandatory Credit: Geoff Burke-USA TODAY Sports
Apr 4, 2017; Washington, DC, USA; Charlotte Hornets head coach Steve Clifford reacts on the bench against the Washington Wizards in the third quarter at Verizon Center. The Wizards won 118-111. Mandatory Credit: Geoff Burke-USA TODAY Sports /
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May 16, 2017; Oakland, CA, USA; San Antonio Spurs guard Patty Mills (8) during the first quarter in game two of the Western conference finals of the NBA Playoffs against the Golden State Warriors at Oracle Arena. The Warriors defeated the Spurs 136-100. Mandatory Credit: Kyle Terada-USA TODAY Sports
May 16, 2017; Oakland, CA, USA; San Antonio Spurs guard Patty Mills (8) during the first quarter in game two of the Western conference finals of the NBA Playoffs against the Golden State Warriors at Oracle Arena. The Warriors defeated the Spurs 136-100. Mandatory Credit: Kyle Terada-USA TODAY Sports /

3. Patty Mills, PG, San Antonio Spurs

There aren’t many great options at this position, except for Patty Mills. In San Antonio, the Spurs will have Tony Parker, Dejounte Murray, and possibly Chris Paul if you believe the rumors. So where does Mills fit in the picture — he doesn’t. The San Antonio backup point guard brings an unbelievable amount of energy and a high motor with him. His tenacity on the defensive end combined with his playmaking and 3-point consistency makes him a great backup. He shot a fantastic 41 percent from 3-point range — which would be the highest on the Hornets’ roster.

At 28 years old, Mills is just hitting his stride right now and would be a great backup to Walker. The Spurs’ backup point guard averaged 9.5 points and 3.5 assists per game. Both of those figures would be improvements over Sessions. Mills is also a few years younger than Sessions, which could bring some youth and athleticism to Charlotte. He could spell Walker during games to keep the Hornets’ star fresh heading late into the season. Mills could also play alongside Walker, giving Walker space to operate with his 3-point shooting.

He’s likely to receive a big contract as well due his young age and unique shooting abilities. The Hornets will likely have the same issues finding space for Mills as they would for Waiters. But if the Hornets want to improve heading into next season, the backup point guard is a point of emphasis.

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