Celtics’ Title Hopes Hinge on Holiday, White’s Shooting Resurgence

BOSTON — The Boston Celtics‘ quest for back-to-back NBA championships may hinge on the shooting resurgence of guards Jrue Holiday and Derrick White, whose recent struggles from beyond the arc have raised concerns as the team eyes another title run.

Last season, Holiday and White were instrumental in the Celtics’ championship success, combining elite defense with efficient shooting. Holiday averaged 13.2 points, 6.1 rebounds, and 4.2 assists on 62% true shooting, while White contributed 16.7 points, 4.3 rebounds, and 4.1 assists with similar efficiency. Their clutch performances, particularly on defense, were pivotal in securing Banner 18.

This season, however, their shooting has dipped significantly. Since Kristaps Porzingis returned to the lineup on November 25, Holiday has shot just 33% from three on 5.2 attempts per game, while White has connected on 34% of his 8.6 attempts per game. Holiday’s corner three-point shooting, a strength last season at 60%, has plummeted to 29%. White, who shot 40% on above-the-break threes last year, is now at 35.5% this season and 32.5% since Porzingis’ return.

Porzingis, meanwhile, has been a bright spot, averaging 19.7 points, 8.0 rebounds, and 1.3 blocks over his last nine games while shooting 49% from the field and 46% from three. Despite his strong play, the Celtics’ backcourt struggles have contributed to the team’s inconsistent performance over the past two months.

“They’re still getting the same looks, but the shots just aren’t falling like they did last year,” said a Celtics analyst. “Both have proven they’re elite shooters, and playing alongside Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown generates plenty of open opportunities. Statistically, they should regress to the mean.”

Defensively, both guards remain solid. White’s block percentage (1.8%) mirrors last season’s numbers, and Holiday, despite being 34, continues to provide reliable defense. However, their offensive contributions will be critical if the Celtics hope to repeat as champions.

“If the Celtics are going to go back-to-back, they need their guards to hit shots,” the analyst added. “It doesn’t guarantee anything, but it makes them a much bigger threat.”

With the playoffs looming, Boston’s title aspirations may rest on whether Holiday and White can rediscover their shooting form from a season ago.