Celtics Need Derrick White to Reclaim Shooting Form

BOSTON, MA — The Boston Celtics are facing challenges early in the regular season, particularly with the performance of guard Derrick White. Through the first five games, White is struggling with his shooting, particularly from three-point range, as the team adjusts to the absence of Jayson Tatum and several key players.

White has averaged 17.0 points, 3.8 rebounds, and 4.4 assists, but he is shooting just 31.1% overall and 25.0% from beyond the arc. He ranks first in the league with 11.2 three-point attempts per game. Despite these numbers, he has been taking many open shots, with 46 of his 56 three-point attempts classified as open or wide open by NBA.com.

His shooting struggles come at a time when the Celtics need him most. The team currently boasts a high offensive rating of 118.2, ranked seventh in the NBA, even with White’s inefficiencies. Their success relies significantly on him rediscovering his shooting touch.

Last season, White shot 38.1% from three-point range, making 239 of 627 attempts. This season, he is hitting just 12 of 46 attempts from similar situations, a stark contrast that raises concerns about the Celtics’ offensive potency moving forward.

“We need Derrick to be the player we know he can be,” a Celtics spokesperson said. “He’s proven he can score and create for others; we have faith he’ll turn things around soon.”

White’s teammate Payton Pritchard has also faced shooting challenges but has shown more adaptability under pressure. As the season progresses, it will be crucial for Boston to have both guards performing at a high level to maintain their competitive edge in the league.