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Derrick White Set for Celtics’ Playoff Challenge Against the Magic

Derrick White is gearing up for another postseason with the Boston Celtics, aiming for a substantial run. Coming off his most productive season after eight years in the NBA, White made a notable contribution by completing the season ranked fourth in the league for three-pointers made, totaling 265. He also averaged a career-best 16.4 points in 33.9 minutes per game, starting all 76 games, marking the highest number of starts among his teammates this season.

The 30-year-old guard has been a pivotal factor in establishing the Celtics as league frontrunners. Complementing his offensive prowess, White’s defensive capabilities also shine. He earned a spot on the All-Defensive Team and was recognized with an eighth-place finish in the voting for the Defensive Player of the Year last season.

As the second-seeded Celtics prepare to face the seventh-seeded Orlando Magic in the first round of the playoffs, White emphasizes the importance of not underestimating any opponent. The Magic secured their playoff berth by winning a play-in game against the Atlanta Hawks.

“It all starts Sunday,” White remarked in a recent interview. “We can’t look past anybody. Orlando is a hungry, young, and energetic team that plays with great intensity. Our focus is on doing whatever it takes to secure four wins.”

Throughout the season, the Celtics remained a dominant force in the NBA, despite facing injuries among key players such as Jaylen Brown, Kristaps Porzingis, and Jrue Holiday. Brown was sidelined for 19 games, Porzingis for 40, and Holiday missed 20, yet the team managed to conclude the season with a strong 61-21 record, only three games short of the Cleveland Cavaliers.

White acknowledges that the challenge of being defending champions lies in the fact that every other team is energized to take them down. “Every game against us feels like their biggest of the season,” he explained. “If they beat the Celtics, their season suddenly looks much brighter. While this is challenging, it also serves as motivation and helps to enhance our performance. We’re ready for the playoff journey.”

The Celtics enter their series against the Magic as overwhelming favorites, listed as 13.5-point favorites for Game 1, a stark contrast to the New York Knicks, who are 6.5-point favorites over the Detroit Pistons in another matchup.

This favored status comes as no surprise given that the Celtics are viewed as the top contenders in the Eastern Conference, with +190 odds, according to ESPN. However, it’s crucial to remember that the Magic prevailed in two of their three encounters with Boston this season, even though the last face-off did not feature most of the Celtics’ regular starting lineup.

Understanding the potential challenge, White is cautious about underestimating the Magic, who boast rising stars like Paolo Banchero and Franz Wagner. Notably, in the prior postseason, Orlando extended their series against the Cavaliers to seven games, showcasing their capability.

“They are definitely a team that presents various challenges,” White stated regarding the Magic. “Their two stars make a significant impact, and we need to match their physical play. They compete fiercely, so we must be prepared for whatever they bring and stay true to our game.”

Derrick White’s Collaboration with Samuel Adams

In an exciting partnership, White has teamed up with Samuel Adams for a special merchandise launch just in time for the playoffs. This exclusive gear includes a hoodie, T-shirt, bucket hat, and can cooler.

“The partnership has been a wonderful journey,” shared White. “It’s heartening to witness the support from the Boston community. I enjoy being associated with Sam Adams, especially seeing fans enjoying their drinks while also wanting to buy our gear.”

“It’s incredible how quickly the merchandise sold out online,” he added. “I know there are still some pieces available at the taproom and brewery. It has been an amazing experience working with Sam Adams, and I’m having a blast.”

This is not White’s first collaboration with the brand, as he previously introduced Derrick White Ale, available in Boston taprooms and at TD Garden. “At our launch earlier this year, it was surreal to see fans enjoying Derrick White Ale in the stands,” he reflected.

With the playoffs nearing, White anticipates an exciting journey as the Celtics look to mark the beginning of their title defense against the Magic in Game 1 at TD Garden.

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