The Celtics’ Biggest Problem Right Now Is the Disappearance of One of Their Best Players
Sports Illustrated • • sports
Key Points:
- The Boston Celtics lost Game 5 at home to the Philadelphia 76ers, squandering a 3–1 series lead and now face the challenge of closing out the first-round series on the road.
- The Celtics' performance in the fourth quarter was notably poor, scoring only 11 points and missing their last 14 shots, marking their worst scoring quarter of the season and a critical factor in the loss.
- Derrick White, a key two-way player for Boston, has struggled significantly in the playoffs, shooting just 29.8% and averaging only 8.2 points per game, a sharp decline from his regular-season performance.
- White's shooting slump has affected his confidence and offensive involvement, reducing his shot attempts and assists, which has left the Celtics without a reliable third option behind stars Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown.
- The Celtics' lack of depth and White's ongoing struggles pose a serious threat to their playoff success, as the team relies heavily on their star duo and needs White to regain form to avoid an early exit.
