Image Source: AP
[Saba Sports News] Derrick White’s breakout playoff performance for the Boston Celtics could lead to another opportunity this summer.
ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski reported that Kawhi Leonard’s knee inflammation remains a concern ahead of the Olympics, and Team USA is considering potential replacements.
Among those considered is White, who is seen as a strong contender for the roster if Leonard cannot play. “Derrick White looms as a real potential candidate for Team USA in the Summer Olympics if Kawhi Leonard is unable to successfully rehab from that knee inflammation that kept him out of the back end of the playoffs,” Wojnarowski said.
This would mark a significant rise for White, who the Celtics acquired for a modest price in a trade a year ago. He has since become a vital part of the team’s rotation, averaging 16.9 points per game in the playoffs while playing elite defense. He is a major reason the Celtics are one win away from the title and was considered an All-Star snub this past season.
Leonard got the last spot on the Olympic team, but that was before his knee issues flared up again, raising concerns about his ongoing health.