After their first-round exit in this year’s playoffs, the Boston Celtics might look to make some serious changes. If they want more financial flexibility, Derrick White would be a realistic trade candidate. His skill set makes him an ideal fit with the Lakers’ core of Luka Doncic, Austin Reaves, and LeBron James. If Boston puts him on the market, the Lakers would have to consider adding him to their team.
According to Blake Silverman of Sports Illustrated, there are several reasons that could prompt the Celtics to trade Derrick White this summer.
“White isn’t getting any younger and Stevens may want to get his future salary—and specifically the player option—off the books to use that money to improve the roster, White heading elsewhere this summer is a possibility.”
After a tough playoff loss, Boston has to think hard about their expensive roster, especially with the stricter luxury tax. White is still one of their top players, but his production and contract make him a coveted trade piece if they want to rebuild around their stars. This could give teams like the Lakers a chance to make a big move. But getting White from their archrival could be costly.
Why White Would Fit
White would fit right in with the Lakers. On defense, he’d quickly become one of their best perimeter defenders. He would allow Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves to take on easier matchups. His smart defense and playoff experience would help fix one of the Lakers’ biggest problems.
On offense, White’s unselfish style is a big plus. He doesn’t need a lot of touches to make a difference, which matters on a team led by Luka and LeBron. He can space the floor, help move the ball, and bring the kind of teamwork that championship teams need.
Potential Trade Package
But when you look at a realistic trade package, it becomes clear this deal might be more of a fantasy than something that could actually happen.
Lakers receive:
Derrick White
Celtics receive:
Jarred Vanderbilt
Jake LaRavia
Marcus Smart
Dalton Knecht
Bronny James
2031 unprotected first-round pick
2033 first-round pick swap
This trade would force the Lakers to give up significant defensive depth, key role players, young talent, and important future draft picks. And even might be enough, as other teams could offer more draft capital or better prospects.
The Lakers Shouldn’t Gut Their Roster
Derrick White would make the Lakers better at the top, but the price is still probably too high. Giving up Vanderbilt’s defense, Smart’s toughness, Knecht’s shooting potential, and several future assets is a lot to lose for a player who isn’t a superstar, even if he’s very good. Derrick White, as an individual, doesn’t make up for everything you’re losing to get him.
Winning a championship isn’t just about having the best starters. Teams need depth, flexibility, and a balanced roster. Trading so much for White would leave the Lakers with less depth and flexibility, making them more vulnerable in the playoffs.
Derrick White might be a great fit on the court, but unless Boston would miraculously be willing to do LA a favor and give them a discount, the Lakers are better off watching from afar instead of making a big push. Sometimes, the best way to win is to keep the balance you already have.
