The Boston Celtics’ attempt to repeat as NBA champions ended in the 2024 conference semifinals when the New York Knicks eliminated them 4-2, with star Jayson Tatum suffering a torn Achilles tendon in Game 4 on May 12. Facing a challenging offseason amid key injuries, the Celtics are considering a Derrick White Celtics trade scenario to restructure their roster for the upcoming seasons.
Boston’s Roster Shakeup After 2024 Championship Run
After winning the 2024 title, the Celtics moved quickly to adjust their lineup, trading Jrue Holiday and Kristaps Porzingis as they prepared for a season likely without the sidelined Tatum. With Tatum expected to miss most of the 2025-26 campaign and Jaylen Brown still recovering from knee surgery, Boston is left relying on role players who have contributed well but are unproven leaders.
Derrick White is among the players whose availability for trade has been a topic of discussion. Given the Celtics’ need for both shooting and future assets, a multi-team trade involving White could reshape the team’s outlook.
Details of the Proposed Derrick White Three-Team Trade
This mock trade scenario involves the Boston Celtics, Toronto Raptors, and Miami Heat, each seeking improvements suited to their current needs. The Miami Heat, following a disappointing first-round sweep by the Cleveland Cavaliers after trading Jimmy Butler, are looking for a reliable third scoring option alongside Bam Adebayo and Tyler Herro.
The Raptors, who missed the playoffs finishing 11th in the Eastern Conference, would acquire Derrick White, a proven clutch performer. Meanwhile, the Celtics would add sharpshooters and future draft picks, and the Heat would receive a versatile scorer in RJ Barrett.
In this deal, the Celtics would receive Duncan Robinson, a 39.7% three-point shooter, Gradey Dick, Keshad Johnson, and four first-round draft picks: the 2025 pick from the Warriors (No. 20), their own 2025 ninth pick, and unprotected first-rounders in 2027 and 2029. The Raptors would get Derrick White, while the Heat would acquire RJ Barrett.
Impact and Future Outlook for the Celtics
This trade could significantly enhance Boston’s shooting and depth by adding Robinson’s elite perimeter threat and two promising role players in Dick and Johnson. The accumulation of four first-round picks also provides Boston with valuable assets for further roster moves or building for the future.
For the Celtics, this reshaping addresses both immediate concerns from injuries and long-term team flexibility, although it comes at the cost of losing White’s proven experience and leadership.
Benefits for Miami and Toronto in the Three-Way Deal
The Heat would gain RJ Barrett, who could operate as a dependable third or second scoring option, filling a need left by Jimmy Butler’s departure. The Raptors, by adding Derrick White, would bolster their backcourt with a clutch player capable of delivering in crunch moments, addressing their playoff gap from the previous season.
This proposed Derrick White Celtics trade scenario illustrates how each team aims to solve specific roster challenges through collaboration, balancing immediate needs and long-term strategy in a shifting Eastern Conference landscape.