Boston Celtics’ long-term strategy for their key guard as the regular season draws near…

An inside source hints at the Boston Celtics’ long-term strategy for their key guard as the regular season draws near.

The clock is ticking for the Celtics to secure a contract extension for Derrick White, with less than two weeks remaining until the season begins.

While there’s no urgent need to complete the extension this year, as White’s current contract runs until the end of the 2024-25 season, the new Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) suggests that getting it done sooner rather than later would be wise.

Yahoo Sports NBA Insider Jake Fischer recently shared insights on the potential extension during an episode of the How ‘Bout Them Celtics podcast.

When asked about a potential extension for White, Fischer admitted he hadn’t heard any specific details about ongoing talks, if any exist. However, he emphasized that the Celtics’ front office and coaching staff hold White in high regard.

Once the regular season commences on October 25, Boston won’t be able to revisit extension negotiations with White until the following year.

Derrick White appears poised for a successful year with the Boston Celtics. In his first full season with the team last year, White made a strong impression.

He consistently started for the team and even earned a spot on the NBA’s All-Defensive second team.

White managed to secure his place in the Celtics’ guard rotation, despite the departures of Marcus Smart and Malcolm Brogdon during the summer.

While it’s unclear if he will retain his starting role this season with the addition of Jrue Holiday, White is well-positioned to build on his strong performance in the 2022-23 season.

The Colorado native played in all 82 regular-season games for the Celtics, starting in 70 of them. He averaged 12.4 points, 3.9 assists, and 3.6 rebounds per game while shooting 46.2% from the field and 38.1% from beyond the three-point line.

His impressive defensive skills and improved three-point shooting efficiency make him a likely mainstay in Coach Joe Mazzulla’s rotation. It wouldn’t be surprising to see him earn another selection to one of the All-Defensive teams this year.