20. Derrick White, Boston Celtics
There was one point in the NBA Playoffs last season when Derrick White was playing like the Boston Celtics’ second-best player. While that brought about bigger questions about their dynamic duo, it also spoke to White’s work ethic, his ability to perform on a big stage, and his talent as a whole. Overall last season, White averaged 12 points and four assists on 38 percent shooting from 3-point range. He managed to play even better when it mattered most for the Celtics in the playoffs.
In the end, it didn’t matter as they lost in Game 7 of the Eastern Conference Finals on their home floor. Nevertheless, after trading Marcus Smart this offseason, White’s role for the team is only going to be that much more meaningful. With the uncertainty regarding Malcolm Brogdon’s future with the team, you can make the argument that White is the most important guard on the roster not named Jaylen Brown.
The good news is that White has proven he can step up and effectively answer the call. White may not ever post All-Star worthy numbers, but he’s one of the most solid non-star point guards in the NBA.