Once all of the dust settles from championship euphoria, the Boston Celtics are going to have some summer business to attend to.
Signing Derrick White to a contract extension is reportedly towards the top of their priorities. White has been an unbelievable fit with Boston and was a key part of their championship success this season.
According to The Athletic’s John Hollinger, the team is “strongly interested” in getting a deal done to keep White around.
“Meanwhile, White will be eligible for an extension for up to four years and $127 million this summer, including incentives; league sources say the Celtics are strongly interested in a deal with him and would likely need to offer every cent of that to get it done.”
Hollinger added that there have been different financial figures rumored for the extension due to certain incentives no longer being “unlikely.”
That maximum number of $127 million over four years will translate to an annual salary of roughly $31.8 million.
Though that number may seem a bit steep, White has proven that he’s well worth whatever price it will take to keep him in green.
He was named to the NBA’s All-Defensive Second Team last season and played so well that fans were clamoring for him to be named to an All-Star team.
In 73 appearances for Boston this year, the Buffalo averaged 15.2 points, 5.2 assists, 4.2 rebounds, and 1.2 blocks per game while shooting 46.1% from the field and 39.6% from beyond the arc.
By all accounts, it feels like White has a mutual interest in an extension. NBA Insider Marc Stein reported that the 29-year-old will be seeking a new deal with Boston, earlier this month in his newsletter.
“I love being here in Boston… I try to be a good guy.”
Derrick White on becoming a fan favorite in Boston pic.twitter.com/glEaQxgf0y
— Celtics on NBC Sports Boston (@NBCSCeltics) June 5, 2024
At NBA Finals Media Day he discussed how much enjoys being a part of the city and the reception that he’s gotten from the fanbase.
“I love being here in Boston,” White told reporters. “I love the fans and I love the crowd. Just being part of this city — I try and embrace it as much as I can. I’m always thankful and grateful to be a part of this organization and play in front of this crowd.”
