Derrick White Silences Doubts with Stunning Statistic
Derrick White, the Boston Celtics guard, faced challenges during the early stages of the 2023-2024 NBA season. With Jayson Tatum absent and several key players gone, including Jrue Holiday and Kristaps Porzingis, his performance raised concerns. Despite these struggles, there is optimism about his potential to bounce back.
Derrick White’s Early Season Struggles
In the first five games of the season, White’s shooting has been below expectations. His average stands at 17.0 points, 3.8 rebounds, and 4.4 assists. However, his shooting percentages reveal deeper issues. He recorded just 31.1% from the floor and a mere 25.0% from three-point range on a league-high of 11.2 attempts per game.
Analysis of Shot Quality
While the statistics may seem alarming, it’s important to note the quality of White’s shot selection. According to NBA data, out of 56 three-point attempts, 46 were classified as either open or wide open. The breakdown is as follows:
- Open (4-6 feet away): 25 attempts
- Wide Open (6+ feet away): 21 attempts
Despite this favorable shot quality, White has managed to convert only 12 of those attempts, resulting in a difficult 26.1% success rate. For comparison, last season, he boasted a much better record, shooting 38.1% on similar opportunities.
The Celtics’ Offensive Performance
Even amid White’s shooting slump, the Celtics have performed well offensively, ranked seventh in the NBA with an impressive offensive rating of 118.2. This success reflects the challenges White faces, as his contribution is crucial for maintaining their offensive edge. Payton Pritchard, another player in the rotation, has had his difficulties but has adapted more efficiently to the pressure.
Looking Ahead
To elevate their offensive capabilities, the Celtics require White to rediscover his shooting form soon. Historically, he has been a reliable shooter and the team has confidence in his ability to improve. As the season progresses, fans and analysts alike are hopeful that White will silence the doubts surrounding his performance with a return to form from beyond the arc.
