Celtics Sign Contract Extension for Derrick White, Committing to Keeping Core Group Together

The Boston Celtics have signed a contract extension with Derrick White for four years and $125.9 million, making him one of the highest-paid players on the team. This new deal will see him start at a 40% raise on his 2024-25 salary, combined with his existing agreement, White will make approximately $145.4 million over the next five seasons. The Celtics acquired White from the San Antonio Spurs during the 2022 trade deadline and has quickly become a key player for the team.

White’s offensive performance has improved significantly since his arrival in Boston, with significant growth in his shooting percentages and taking on a more prominent role as a ball-handler, now serving as the team’s starting point guard. The contract extension for White ensures that the Celtics will face significant luxury tax bills starting in the 2025-26 season. With Jaylen Brown already starting a super-max extension this season and Jayson Tatum likely to follow next year, the team has committed to keeping their core together.

Looking ahead, the Celtics have the potential for a multi-year run of success with a core group of young players. Tatum, Brown, and Porzingis are all in their 20s, while White is turning 30 soon. Despite Holiday being closer to the end of his prime, the team’s core is secured for the foreseeable future. After an impressive 64-win season, the Celtics are not just focused on repeating as champions but establishing a legacy for years to come. This sets a high bar for other teams in the league looking to challenge Boston for supremacy.