3 Boston Celtics who have stepped up their games in 2022-23

No. 2: Derrick White

Derrick White has been an unexpected surprise in his first full season with the Boston Celtics. It is amazing what dedicated athletes can do when they commit to improving their weaknesses in a single off-season.

We saw a similar jump with Grant Williams in the previous season. The former Spurs combo guard turned Celtic, has managed to fix his once-broken shooting form and mold it into something beautifully effective.  In doing so, this bumped his three-ball percentage up 15% from 30% to 45% which is good for the top 12 in the NBA.

Not enough raves about the job White has done assimilating into a more increased role with the starting group and even being tasked with closing most games. Amidst, an offseason of scandal and injuries for the green and white, he has been a steady and dependable force to rely on for a consistent contribution.

The six-foot-four guard is averaging 11.1 points, three rebounds, and 3.3 assists per game on a stout 49% from the floor, 45% from distance, and 87% from the foul line. His defensive acumen has not dropped in the slightest, still a pest on the perimeter and the best in the league at drawing charges.

Imagine, the tough decision Joe Mazzulla will have to make when it comes to whether Derrick White moves to the second unit or remains in the starting line-up once Robert Williams returns come Christmas Time.