NBA teams competing for a championship often enhance their rosters by bringing in experienced veterans with title-winning credentials. The Boston Celtics, in their current contention phase, are no exception to this strategy. These seasoned players contribute wisdom and a competitive mindset to the locker room while being driven to secure another championship before retiring.
The Celtics have already seen the benefits of this approach through Al Horford, who has been playing some of the best basketball of his career well into his late 30s. Currently, Boston’s roster boasts an intriguing mix of youth and experience. Besides Horford, who is 38, and Jrue Holiday, aged 34, the team’s core is notably youthful. While Derrick White recently turned 30, players like Kristaps Porzingis, Jayson Tatum, Jaylen Brown, Payton Pritchard, Sam Hauser, and Neemias Queta are still under 30.
Given this dynamic, the Celtics have room to bolster their roster further by adding a veteran presence. One potential move could involve trading for Utah Jazz point guard Patty Mills. At 36 years old, Mills brings a wealth of playoff experience, including 98 postseason appearances and an NBA championship with the San Antonio Spurs in 2014.
Even if Mills doesn’t see significant playing time in Boston’s playoff runs, his experience and insights could be invaluable for guiding the Celtics’ younger players. With his sights set on a second championship ring, Mills would bring motivation and leadership to a team that’s already a serious title contender.