2 Boston Celtics players who must step up in the NBA Finals

May 27, 2022; Boston, Massachusetts, USA; Boston Celtics center Robert Williams III (44) is introduced before game six of the 2022 eastern conference finals against the Miami Heat at TD Garden. Mandatory Credit: Winslow Townson-USA TODAY Sports
May 27, 2022; Boston, Massachusetts, USA; Boston Celtics center Robert Williams III (44) is introduced before game six of the 2022 eastern conference finals against the Miami Heat at TD Garden. Mandatory Credit: Winslow Townson-USA TODAY Sports
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Boston Celtics (Photo by Stacy Revere/Getty Images)
Boston Celtics (Photo by Stacy Revere/Getty Images)

Boston Celtics player No. 2) Derrick White

The second player in this NBA Finals matchup who must step up for the Boston Celtics is Derrick White.

The point guard’s first postseason in the Celtics green has been somewhat of a rollercoaster ride, having his ups and downs.

Like Marcus Smart, defense is Derrick White’s strength. Offensively, it’s a struggle for him at times, and his inefficiency in the scoring department is sometimes a cause for concern. When he’s providing his team with consistent offense, it only adds to Boston’s arsenal of depth.

In the previous series against the Miami Heat, it appeared that White was starting to find consistency and could give the Celtics solid playmaking. In the biggest moment of his career, he must be able to continue his stretch of solid play against Golden State, especially on offense.

On defense, Derrick White will have his hands full defensively on the Warriors guards in Stephen Curry, Klay Thompson, & Jordan Poole. Each guy is capable of dropping 25+ points on any given night (Curry more like 30-35), and White’s defense will be critical in slowing them down.

Offensive consistency & solid defense from Derrick White will be two major keys to helping the Boston Celtics win their first title since 2008.