How likely is it that Celtics guard Derrick White is actually named an All-Star?

How likely is it that Celtics guard Derrick White is actually named an All-Star?

In recent weeks, as Celtics guard Derrick White has elevated his status from well-liked player to undisputed fan favorite, many admirers have made their pitch for his NBA All-Star candidacy.

Jayson Tatum proudly sported a

“Derrick White for All-Star” t-shirt. Coach Joe Mazzulla unequivocally supported his guy. JJ Redick gave his endorsement and rationale as well. Isaiah Thomas labeled him as the most underrated player in the league. The case for why Derrick White deserves consideration for the All-Star Game can be found [here](link to the video/article).

White is averaging 17 points, 5.3 assists, 3.9 rebounds, 1.3 blocks, and 1.3 steals, while shooting 48.6 percent from the floor, 41.3 percent from 3-point range, and 89.2 percent from the line. He’s second in the NBA in net rating (14.3) and ninth in offensive rating (122.4). The Celtics have the best record in the NBA. They’re 24-4 with him in the lineup and 1-2 without him. White has joined Michael Jordan and George Gervin as the only guards to block at least two shots in seven straight games. He also joined LeBron James as the only players in NBA history with 100 assists, 70 3-pointers, 30 blocks, and 30 steals in their first 27 games of a season.

“What you’re seeing is one of the best two-way players in the NBA impacting winning on the best team in basketball,” Redick said. “That, to me, is at least the start of some All-Star consideration.”

Most of all, his game passes the eye test. When the Celtics need a big bucket, or timely stop, White is often the one to provide it. His poise, unselfishness, and versatility have been critical in Boston’s ascension this season.

“I probably have a better case than I have ever in the last six years,” NBC Sports Boston’s Abby Chin said. “So, honestly, that would be cool if I got voted. But I’m not really focusing too much on that. Just got to continue to play the right way.”

So, with all that in mind, how likely is it that he actually makes the All-Star team? Let’s take a closer look.

Here’s how the voting for starters works: It’s 50 percent fan vote, 25 percent media vote, and 25 percent players vote. While Celtics fans have “White Fever,” and will certainly support their guy, White is up against some stiff competition in the fan vote. Playing in White’s favor are his exceptional stats and impact on the Celtics, but he's competing against other standout guards such as Tyrese Haliburton, Jalen Brunson, Tyrese Maxey, Damian Lillard, Donovan Mitchell, and Trae Young.

As dynamic as he’s been, it’s highly unlikely he’ll be named a starter. The NBA will share fan voting totals Jan. 4, 11, and 18, before revealing the starters Jan. 25.

Here’s where it gets more interesting from White’s perspective. NBA coaches select the 14 total reserves between both conferences, which includes two guards, three forwards, and two players at any position from each conference. If not named a starter, White has to beat out a competitive field of guards and other players to secure a spot as a reserve.

Let’s say, hypothetically, that Haliburton and Brunson are named starters and Maxey and Lillard are named reserve guards. That means White has to beat out either Mitchell or Young, and other potential contenders. Considering the statistics and impact of these players, it's a challenging task for White.

While White’s performance is impressive, he faces tough competition from players like Maxey, Lillard, Mitchell, and Young. Each of these players brings a unique set of skills and contributions to their teams, making the competition even stiffer for White. Additionally, he indirectly competes against his Celtics teammates Kristaps Porzingis and Jrue Holiday (assuming Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown make it).

White has certainly earned consideration for the All-Star Game, but he must navigate a competitive landscape to secure a spot. Ultimately, only time will tell if he's destined to be named an All-Star this season. Whether it's through the fan, media, or player vote, or potentially as an injury replacement, White's outstanding performance puts him in the running for this prestigious honor.

As the basketball season progresses, fans and enthusiasts eagerly await the announcement of All-Star selections, where they hope to see their favorite players recognized for their exceptional contributions to the sport.

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