Al Horford Endorses Derrick White for NBA All-Defensive First Team

Derrick White's impact on defense hasn't gone unnoticed.

David Butler II-USA TODAY Sports

Entering the final week of the regular season, the Boston Celtics have the fourth best defensive rating in the NBA.

Though the Celtics’ roster features three players who have earned All-Defensive team selections in Al Horford, Robert Williams, and the reigning Defensive Player of the Year, Marcus Smart, Derrick White is leading Boston in total blocks. White has registered 73 blocks over 78 games.

The six-foot-four guard is ranked #24 in the NBA for total blocks this season, a list dominated by forwards and centers. White is the leader among players who are six-foot-seven and under.

Horford stated that White deserves All-Defensive team honors.

"There's no question ... He is First Team All-Defense."@Al_Horford tells @tvabby why Derrick White deserves an All-Defense nod 🔒 ... pic.twitter.com/RUo127kQ7D

— Celtics on NBC Sports Boston (@NBCSCeltics) April 3, 2023

"I personally think he’s probably First Team All-Defense already," said Horford to NBC Sports Boston. "You look around and it’s one of those things that we can’t get caught up in names and reputations over the years. Focus on this year, focus on what he’s done, on the success of our team. It’s a big part of that. There’s no argument.”

The 5-time All-Star continued to praise his teammate.

"It’s very impressive. His instincts, how hard he plays. He’s really working hard out there. He’s trying to play the right way. He’s doing the right things and it’s very clear. I don’t have to oversell it -- you just have to look at what it is”.

Williams, the Celtics’ other prominent big man, commented on the guard’s defensive efforts.

"I try to let him win a couple of them just because he's my guard." 🤣

Rob Williams talks friendly competition with Derrick White for blocked shots #BleedGreen pic.twitter.com/1ypeSiEmMw

— Celtics on NBC Sports Boston (@NBCSCeltics) April 3, 2023

"We're kinda in an argument about who gets what blocks," said Williams III. "It seems like we're both on the same play when it's a blocked shot. I try to let him win a couple of them because he's my guy but I gotta start taking some away from him."

White currently ranks at #50 for most regular season blocks in Boston Celtics history.

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