Unexpected Celtics player making push for first All-Star Game
Derrick White has been enjoying a breakout season for the Boston Celtics. The veteran guard has emerged as a crucial member of the team's rotation and continually come up big in tight games.
White has dramatically improved his all-around game in recent seasons, most notably as a three-point shooter and shot blocker.
In a recent episode of JJ Redick's "Old Man and the Three" podcast, the former sharpshooter shared his thoughts on why White deserves to be an All-Star this season.
"Let's just start with the impact on winning," Reddick said. "Derrick White, when he's on the floor, Boston has outscored their opponents by 265 points so far this, which is third in the NBA. So far, he's only trailing Tyrese Maxey and Nikola Jokic...What you're seeing is one of the best two-way players in the NBA, impacting winning on the best team in basketball. That, to me, is at least the start of some All-Star consideration."
White is arguably the best shot-blocking guard in the league. He's also a valuable ball-handler and shot-creator for his teammates. On defense, he navigates screens at an elite level and hounds offensive players to help contain penetration and contest shots. He's doing all of that while making a huge impact on a team that has six players with All-Star-level skill sets.
Shining on a contending team when you're not one of the featured stars is difficult. Doing it when the team is littered with high-level talent that could walk into the starting lineup of any team in the NBA is incredibly impressive. White has earned his name being mentioned among All-Star candidates. His impact reaches far beyond the box score. Still, his season averages are impressive.
Regardless of whether White makes an All-Star team or not, he will continue to help the Celtics march toward the postseason. Then, he will be a core piece in an attempt to get back to the NBA Finals and potentially a championship. He would likely choose the Larry O'Brien Trophy over an All-Star selection.
However, there's no legitimate reason why White can't contend for both. After all, you don't have to be a star name to earn yourself an All-Star selection. The point is you earn it on the court with consistent excellence. White has done that and will likely continue doing so for the remainder of the season.
More must-reads: