Derrick White reaches 500 career blocks, joins rare company for guards

White’s defensive milestone and recent form

Derrick White has quietly become one of the Celtics’ most valuable two-way players since the team acquired him in 2022. He helped Boston’s run to the 2024 title and has continued to shine on both ends of the court this season.

In a recent game against the Denver Nuggets he swatted three shots to push past 500 career blocks. That mark puts him in a tiny group of guards under 6’5″ to reach 500 blocks — joining Dwyane Wade, Dennis Johnson and Jrue Holiday — and he reached it faster than those peers.

This season White has stepped up with Jayson Tatum sidelined at times, averaging about 18.4 points per game while recording a career-high 1.5 blocks per game, showing he can carry scoring and defensive responsibilities.

Where the Celtics stand and other headlines

Boston sits near the top of the Eastern Conference with a 23-13 record and will host the Toronto Raptors, who are close behind at 23-15. That matchup has implications for seeding and should be competitive given both teams’ recent play.

Other recent items around the game include a string of interviews and features with coaches and players. Highlights: Jaka Lakovic praising Zeljko Obradovic’s ability to make players live and breathe basketball; Zlatko Jovanovic standing by a big decision as his club chases its goals; Sani Becirovic saying Zenit is aiming for the highest level in the near future; Levi Randolph expressing hope to return to the EuroLeague; and several veterans noting how defense and strong leadership shape winning teams.