The Boston Celtics have been riding the next man up mentality all season long, but more so than ever as of late, and one of the players who’s stepped up more than anyone has been Derrick White.

Since Marcus Smart injured his ankle almost three weeks ago in Toronto, White is averaging 17 points, 5.3 rebounds, and 4.2 assists per game with 48/43/89 shooting splits over this seven game span while Smart is out.

White has hit double-digit scoring in all of the seven games Smart has been out during this stretch while being the only player on the team to appear in every game this season.

He’s been a vital part of the team since the Celtics traded for him at last year’s deadline. So vital that I’d consider him part of Boston’s core. His versatility on the court is a widely underrated element of his game, as he’s one of the best two-way players in the league.

White is producing an All-NBA Defensive season this year while being the glue to this team this season and he deserves some positive recognition for it. 

Follow us on Twitter @CelticsFiles

Photo Credit: Mary Altaffer, AP Photo