Aussies in NBA: Mills continues to lead Australian charge

Patty Mills has claimed bragging rights in his most recent clash against fellow Aussie Aron Baynes and the Detroit Pistons, and for good reason.

The Spurs prevailed in a tight contest, eventually claiming a 96-86 victory (boxscore). Mills finished the game with 10 points, and 4 assists, while Baynes managed 2 points and 4 rebounds.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9uLgfx8S3sA&feature=youtu.be

With the return of Tony Parker from injury, Mills came off the bench. However, this did not limit his output. He managed to outscore Parker by three, and Gregg Popovich gave Mills 5 more minutes than his French teammate.

This performance came after an impressive 8 point, 10 assist outing against Houston (video highlights). The Spurs went down by 2 in that particular game.

The Aussie/Spanish connection was once again on show for the Spurs in this one. Mills and Pau Gasol continued to look for, and find each other on court.

https://twitter.com/PickandRollAU/status/797264525871329281

Baynes did not have the same opportunities as Mills, but he still managed to make the highlight reel. His only points came off an impressive tip-in after a Beno Udrih miss.

https://twitter.com/PickandRollAU/status/797264721099386880

Mills has had a terrific start to the season, and he has been rewarded with 24 minutes per game (MPG). With a ratio of 5, he currently sits 2nd in AST/TO in guards who average over 20 MPG. Chris Paul leads the category at 5.5.

The Aussie could also be on the way to joining the 50/40/90 club. At the moment he shoots 46% from the field, 41% from beyond the arc, and 100% from the charity stripe. All of Mills' stats can be viewed here.

Spurs and Patty Mills' fans will be keeping a close eye on what Gregg Popovich decides to do in regards to his point guards, especially as we get deeper into the season.