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Way too early predictions for the 2024 Most Improved Player Award

By Thomas J. Brown

PHILADELPHIA, PA - APRIL 15: Mikal Bridges #1 of the Brooklyn Nets reacts after a made basket against the Philadelphia 76ers during Game One of the Eastern Conference First Round Playoffs at the Wells Fargo Center on April 15, 2023 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. The 76ers defeated the Nets 121-101. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Mitchell Leff/Getty Images)
PHILADELPHIA, PA - APRIL 15: Mikal Bridges #1 of the Brooklyn Nets reacts after a made basket against the Philadelphia 76ers during Game One of the Eastern Conference First Round Playoffs at the Wells Fargo Center on April 15, 2023 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. The 76ers defeated the Nets 121-101. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Mitchell Leff/Getty Images) /
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Derrick White (Photo by Maddie Meyer/Getty Images)
Derrick White (Photo by Maddie Meyer/Getty Images) /

Derrick White- Boston Celtics

In Game 6 of the Eastern Conference Finals, Derrick White made perhaps the most memorable play of the 2023 postseason when he made a tip-in at the buzzer to win the contest and force Game 7. Unfortunately for the Boston Celtics, they were handily beaten on their homecourt in the series’ deciding game.

However, White’s contributions to the C’s 2023 campaign extended far beyond one unbelievable highlight in the Conference Finals. Last season, he was Boston’s Mr. Reliable, playing in all 82 regular season games while making 70 starts. Not only did he provide a consistent scoring boost by averaging 12.4 points per game, but he also displayed poise and playmaking ability, which translated to 3.9 assists per contest. Most often, the Celtics’ offense goes through Jayson Tatum and Jalen Brown, their All-Star duo. The fact that White was able to make these contributions in a not-so-traditional off-the-ball role speaks volumes about his basketball IQ.

This past offseason, the Celtics made headlines again when they traded away one of their vocal leaders, Marcus Smart, in a three-team deal that landed them the services of Kristaps Porzingis. Many pundits are already calling them the favorites to win the East next season. The absence of Smart means that White will become the team’s full-time starter at point guard. One can only imagine that being given the keys to the car is only going to make White a better driver of the team’s offense than he was before.

Having another potential All-Star on the roster is a gift but it will also mean there will be an adjustment period for everyone on the team. However, White’s stabilizing presence as a six year NBA veteran who has played a lot of meaningful playoff basketball means the team will have a calming force at the point guard position. For White, his increased opportunities could also lead to contention for the Most Improved Player Award when it’s all said and done.