Celtics Rumors: $123 Million Derrick White Question Arises As 2023 All-NBA Guard Becomes Eligible for This Year’s Honor
Follow Us
Derrick White‘s performance on Monday night was a metaphor for the Boston Celtics’ season: dominant, historic, and raising big questions for the future. In a resounding 119-94 victory over the Detroit Pistons, White bagged his first career triple-double 22 points, 10 rebounds, and 10 assists. Not only was it a personal milestone for White, but it came right before he crossed the 65-game minimum requirement, making him eligible for the postseason awards.
Derrick White has reached the 65-game criteria.
The Boston guard is now eligible for postseason honors.
White was named All-NBA Defensive 2nd team in 2023.
He has 3 pending bonuses:
$250K: All-NBA Defensive (1st or 2nd)
$500K: 185+ 3-pointers made (currently 172)
$500K: 70+…— Bobby Marks (@BobbyMarks42) March 23, 2024
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
A dilemma arises for the Celtics though. White’s newfound superstardom comes with a hefty price tag, a potential contract extension of $123 million over four years. While a championship is the ultimate goal for Boston, their payroll is quite maxed out already. Plus, another max contract would put a serious strain on their already stretched budget.
The Celtics made a significant investment when they acquired White from the San Antonio Spurs. While other teams might be dangling first-round selections for a player of White’s caliber, Boston prioritizes winning right now, not accumulating future draft capital.
Derrick White’s Breakout Season
White’s value extends far beyond the single performance on Monday. White earned All-NBA Defensive Second Team honors in 2023 and this season, he’s basically guaranteed himself another $250,000 bonus for making the All-Defensive team again. But White isn’t just a lockdown defender anymore. He’s blossoming into a well-rounded offensive contributor, currently averaging career highs of 15.3 points per game (PPG) and 5.1 assists per game (APG). He’s shooting lights out too, with a field goal percentage of 45% and a three-point percentage hovering around a scorching 40%.
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
White’s triple-double is just a slice of the Celtics’ offensive pie this season. They’re the undisputed kings of blowouts (most wins by 20+ points in the league) and they’re the only team ever to record at least three 50-point victories in a single season. This, fueled by their effective spacing, creates scoring opportunities for stars like Jayson Tatum (averaging a league-leading 27.1 PPG) and allows role players like Derrick White to shine.
Trending
Coach JJ Redick Promises To Extend LeBron’s Career by 6 Years by Unlocking a New Dimension to His Game
May 09, 2024 07:02 PM EDT
With Wife Yvette Prieto Absent, Michael Jordan’s Mother Deloris Accompanies Son to Wilmington
May 09, 2024 03:49 PM EDT
Lakers News: Snoop Dogg Confirms Shaq’s Jeanie Buss Warning As LA Looks To Please LeBron
May 11, 2024 04:27 AM EDT
Alex Rodriguez Could Further Deprive Anthony Edwards of The Michael Jordan Treatment Despite Recent Claim
May 10, 2024 02:27 PM EDT
Lakers News: JJ Redick LA Job Under Threat as Rumors of LeBron’s Favorite Coach Swirl Online
May 10, 2024 04:48 PM EDT
Get instantly notified of the hottest NBA stories via Google! Click on Follow Us and Tap the Blue Star.
Follow Us
View this post on Instagram
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
Derrick White’s triple-double is a sign of things to come for the Celtics. They have an impressive offense, a lockdown defense, and a player in White who’s transforming into a major player on both ends of the court. But the question of his contract hangs over his and the team’s head. Will the Celtics find a way to keep White or will they be forced to let him walk? One thing is for sure, the Boston Celtics are a force to be reckoned with, and Derrick White is a big part of the reason why. Share your thoughts below!
Derrick White’s Stat Padding Antics Revealed As Coach Mazzulla & Kristaps Porzingis React to Rare Numbers
Edited by:
Shivatmika Manvi