Trade rumors are swirling around Derrick White, but the math says moving him would be a huge mistake. Bleacher Report recently listed the guard as a potential asset the Boston Celtics could move, noting his three years and $98 million contract left. His price tag could deter teams looking to save cash. White was the engine that kept Boston alive when their stars sat out.
The Celtics beat the Milwaukee Bucks 109-102 without Jayson Tatum or Payton Pritchard. Tatum took a rest day, and Pritchard left late with an eye injury. White answered the call with 11 points in the fourth quarter alone. He went a perfect 9-9 from the free-throw line to seal the win. This performance came despite him shooting just 1-for-7 from three-point range.
White’s Aggressive Mindset
White changed his approach when the starters went down. He admitted he had to be more direct to help the team win. “Obviously with JT out and then [Payton Pritchard] going out too, I had a little bit more aggressive mindset,” he said after the game. He finished with 24 points, seven assists, and four rebounds in 35 minutes of play. His defense also stayed sharp with two blocks and a steal. The 32-year-old proved he can handle the heavy load without Tatum.
Some critics point to his poor shooting as a reason to trade him. He is shooting 29.3% from deep through eight games this season. Chowder and Champions noted his three-point shooting has not improved since last year. That stat is a real concern for a team needing spacing. However, his overall impact goes beyond just making shots. He drives to the basket and makes life hard for opposing guards. The Celtics need a two‑way threat more than extra bench minutes.
The Cost of Losing a Glue Guy
Filling White’s role would be nearly impossible. He is described as a glue guy who makes smart, quick decisions. The team would lose a player who protects the rim and moves the ball well. Paul George also stepped up with 25 points and five steals, but he cannot do it alone every night. Joe Mazzulla said the team’s defensive effort and White’s contribution. “Defensively, Neemi made some big-time plays there,” Mazzulla said, referring to Neemias Queta, but the same praise applies to White’s relentless pressure.
White just proved he can do that. The team should keep their guard and build around his versatility. Chris Cenac, a 19‑year‑old pick, was assigned to the G League on Thursday for additional playing time.
