Derrick White Draws Interest from Golden State Warriors

On the “Zach Lowe Show,” Logan Murdock reported that Derrick White is someone the Golden State Warriors may be interested in acquiring this offseason. The Warriors and the Boston Celtics were eliminated in the second round of the NBA Playoffs, and both teams turn to the summer with questions about their team. Golden State saw Stephen Curry go down, and their lack of depth cost them the series. However, a player like Derrick White would come at a steep cost, and even with their salary cap problems, he is not a player Boston would part with easily.

The Warriors’ Offensive Needs

This season, the Warriors made a statement by trading for Jimmy Butler and making a playoff push into the second round. That statement was that they are trying to maximize their opportunities to continue winning with Curry. Yet, when Curry went out with a calf strain in Game 1, Golden State lost the next four games, conceding a gentlemen’s sweep. This revealed a lack of offense and scoring when Curry is off the floor. Young players like Brandin Podziemski, Jonathan Kuminga, and Moses Moody have been solid, but most of the offense falls onto Curry’s shoulders.

Logan Murdock said, “Another guy that I think you should look at for the Warriors going forward is Derrick White… I think that’s something the Warriors are looking at right now.” This report was expected, but given how Golden State went out in the playoffs, it makes sense they would be interested in Derrick White.

This season, White averaged 16.4 points per game, shooting 38.4% from three. In Boston, he’s already proven he can play alongside other stars, so fitting alongside players like Curry and Butler would not be an issue. The only issue is that the Celtics will not be eager to part with a player like White unless Golden State gives up a massive haul.

Reluctant To Trade Derrick White

The Celtics are entering the offseason with their own problems. Jayson Tatum tore his Achilles and will miss most, if not all, of next season. Their luxury tax situation means they may have to trade some important pieces on their expensive roster. But Derrick White being one of those pieces is not likely. Firstly, he is on a very team-friendly contract. He is on the Celtics’ payroll for the next three seasons with a player option for a fourth, and out of all their starters, he is the cheapest one per year. As far as moving players, White is cheaper, younger, and under contract longer than someone like Jrue Holiday, who is also rumored to be moved.

Derrick White is also one of the most beloved players on the Celtics. He’s been part of the team since 2022, and he immediately fit in with the team and organization. The fanbase loves him, and he’s already been involved in many all-time Celtics moments. Like his game-winning putback against the Miami Heat in Game 6 of the 2023 Conference Finals or chipping his tooth on the way to an NBA Championship in 2024. Boston trading him over players like Holiday and Kristaps Porzingis would not resonate well and would be unlikely.

Final Thoughts

Golden State showing interest in Derrick White is an intriguing aspect. It is obvious why they’d want a player of his caliber, but he will not be easy to get. The Celtics have other players they would trade away before White, and Golden State would need to give up a large haul to acquire him. After what they gave up getting Butler, that haul may not be available, but there have been crazier trades in the NBA.