Derrick White of the Boston Celtics will be taking on a different but huge role starting this 2023-24 NBA season. However, the 29-year-old guard has already made quite an impression on others - particularly D'Angelo Russell of the Los Angeles Lakers.
Russell admitted that White has inspired him and wants to be like him. It was an odd admission for the 27-year-old, although his explanation made sense.
"He doesn't get a lot of credit for what he does, makes all the winning plays and that's who I wanna be," Russell said after the Lakers' loss to the Milwaukee Bucks, 108-97.
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White learned about Russell's comments through a friend and admitted he was shocked at the All-Star guard's admission, The Athletic reported.
"Obviously D-Lo's an All-Star, has done a lot of great things in this league, a highly talented player. So it's cool to get recognized like that, especially by a guy who's done so much in the league like he has," the 29th overall pick of the 2017 NBA Draft.
Bigger roles for DLO, White
White will be taking on a bigger role with Marcus Smart no longer around. He is expected to start at the point guard position as the Celtics make a renewed push for an NBA title, something that the 6-foot-4 guard has yet to savor.
As for Russell, he will be in for an interesting season after returning to Los Angeles last NBA season. He had shown a lot of maturity in his second stint, but his consistency during games will be closely monitored.
DLO was criticized for his lackluster performance in the Western Conference Finals against the Denver Nuggets. Regardless, he signed a two-year $36 million deal - a decision that was reportedly because he felt wanted, SI.com reported.
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