shuffle. The trade for Jrue Holiday, a marquee acquisition, overshadowed the potential impact of Derrick White on the Boston Celtics roster. But according to CelticsBlog’s Jack Simone, White was already prepared to fill in the shoes of Marcus Smart as the team’s defensive anchor.
The summer of 2021 was filled with trade rumors and speculations for the Boston Celtics. The acquisition of Jrue Holiday from the Milwaukee Bucks took center stage, as the front office aimed to improve the team’s defense and perimeter shooting. However, amidst all the noise, Simone argues that White was being overlooked as a potential replacement for Smart.
Smart has been a vital part of the Celtics’ success over the years, known for his tenacious defense and ability to hit important shots. His presence on the court has been instrumental in the team’s defensive identity. But injuries and inconsistent shooting have occasionally hindered Smart’s impact on the game.
White, on the other hand, has quietly become a defensive force for the San Antonio Spurs. The 6-foot-4 guard showcases his versatility on the defensive end, capable of guarding multiple positions and disrupting opponents’ offensive schemes. His defensive prowess aligns well with the Celtics’ philosophy, making him an ideal replacement for Smart.
Moreover, White brings an additional offensive element to the table, shooting near 40% from beyond the arc. His ability to stretch the floor and knock down shots from deep gives the Celtics another dimension on offense. This shooting touch was a significant factor in the team’s decision to pursue Holiday, but Simone argues that White possesses the same skill set.
Simone highlights White’s breakout performance in the 2020 NBA Bubble, where he averaged 18.3 points per game on 53.8% shooting. This impressive showing demonstrated White’s ability to carry the offensive load, further solidifying his case as a potential replacement for Smart.
Furthermore, White’s partnership with Jaylen Brown in the backcourt could be a formidable defensive duo. Both players possess the size, athleticism, and defensive instincts to disrupt opponents’ offensive game plans. The Celtics’ defensive strategy revolves around switchability and versatility, and White fits perfectly into this scheme.
While the trade for Holiday undoubtedly strengthens the Celtics, Simone argues that the organization did not necessarily need to make the move. White was already equipped to take on the defensive responsibilities left by Smart, while also providing an offensive boost. The front office seems to have underestimated White’s potential impact, as he was overshadowed by the Holiday trade.
In conclusion, Derrick White’s defensive prowess and offensive versatility make him a suitable replacement for Marcus Smart on the Boston Celtics roster. Despite the attention surrounding the Jrue Holiday trade, White’s abilities were being overlooked. His ability to guard multiple positions, shoot from beyond the arc, and carry the offensive load make him a valuable asset for the Celtics. The organization may have already had the Smart replacement they were seeking, even before the trade for Holiday.
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