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Joe Mazzulla pinpoints the reason Derrick White is so good for the Boston Celtics in crunch time

Originally posted on NBA Analysis Network
By Aikansh Chaudhary | Last updated Dec 8, 2025 8:00 AM ET

The Boston Celtics are currently on a fine winning streak, and Derrick White has played a key role in the team’s success this season.

Following the Boston Celtics’ 121-113 win over the Toronto Raptors, the 18-time NBA champions have improved to a 15-9 record.

Despite Jayson Tatum likely being out for the season, the Celtics are currently the third seed in the Eastern Conference.

Are the Boston Celtics still a dangerous threat in the East without Jayson Tatum?

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Head coach Joe Mazzulla has done a commendable job this season. As far as players are concerned, veteran guard Derrick White deserves a lot of praise.

Joe Mazzulla praises Derrick White

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In the C’s recent comfortable win over the Raptors, White recorded 27 points, 4 rebounds, and 5 assists. He also made six three-pointers while impacting the game on the defensive end with three steals.

After the game, Mazzulla was asked about White’s form in crunch time, and the Celtics coach had nothing but praise for the 31-year-old.

“He’s got the ability to score at all three levels: the three, the pull-up two, he can get to the rim and get fouled,” Mazzulla said via Bobby Krivitsky on X.

Mazzulla added: “He does a good job of recognizing matchups and coverages in real-time when they’re trying to change them. I thought he was just steady tonight for us.”

Of course, Jaylen Brown is the No. 1 option for the Celtics in Tatum’s absence, but White’s contributions are somewhat underrated as they are a key reason behind the franchise being a playoff contender.