Celtics’ Derrick White Recognized as Most Underrated Player in NBA Poll

Boston, MA – The Boston Celtics, current NBA champions, are still not receiving the recognition they deserve, according to fans and media outside Boston. Despite being heavy favorites to repeat as champions, the Celtics’ Derrick White has emerged as a standout among his star-studded teammates, which includes Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown.

In a recent anonymous survey conducted by The Athletic, White was voted the second-most underrated player in the league, earning 7.4% of the votes. Cade Cunningham of the Detroit Pistons led with 8.8%. The poll highlighted White’s contributions during the Celtics’ playoff run, where he averaged a career-high 16.4 points per game, along with 4.5 rebounds and 4.8 assists.

A player quoted in the report emphasized White’s importance on the team, stating, ‘There are little things he takes advantage of. It seems like he thinks about the game very strategically.’ White’s performance helped lead the Celtics to their 18th championship title last season.

Besides White, other Celtics players also received votes in the same category. Jrue Holiday tied for fifth place with 2.9%, while Payton Pritchard garnered 2.2%. Both Tatum and Brown received 1.5% each, showcasing the team’s overall depth.

Pritchard was also acknowledged for his contributions when he was named among the league’s emerging talents. The Celtics organization ranked third overall, while head coach Joe Mazzulla received the fourth-most votes for best coach, further indicating the respect Boston commands in the league.

In total, 158 players participated in the survey, answering various questions about the league, including favorites for MVP and potential title winners. While the Oklahoma City Thunder were slightly favored in titles based on regular-season performance, 57.7% of the surveyed players still picked the Celtics to retain their championship status.

This shows a strong consensus regarding the Celtics’ elite status and reflects their strategic and talent-packed roster. With players like White, Tatum, and Brown, the Celtics have a very promising chance to achieve another championship victory.