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Derrick White Praises Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown's Impact That 'Doesn't Show Up on the Stat Sheet'
The Boston Celtics prevailed over the Cleveland Cavaliers to begin their two-game set at TD Garden, 120-113. After the visitors built an early 15-point advantage, it was close for most of the remainder of the matchup.
Jayson Tatum, Jaylen Brown, and Kristaps Porzingis combined for 71 points. Derrick White was 5-8 from three with 17 to further highlight why his imprint is at the forefront of conversation around the team right now. White, Porzingis, with his 13 points, and Boston's dynamic duo were key in the Celtics taking the lead in the third and down the stretch to close out the game.
Following the win, White praised Tatum and Brown for their less heralded contributions.
"They do so much that doesn't show up on the stat sheet," White said. "Every time they drive, they attract two-three guys. Making the right kick-out might lead to another pass, gets a open three for us which doesn't count as an assist for them or anything, but they make the play."
White sees the growth in leadership Brown and Tatum have made. He continued to describe their impact in ways that receive less attention than their scoring.
"Or just being a decoy, setting a screen," he added. "JT does a good job of setting screens and getting guys off the body for me; I just got to make the right play after that. They do so much night in and night out that doesn't show up on the stat sheet; we're thankful to have them."
What the traditional box score does capture is that Tatum's rebounding has been at an elite level. He earned his eighth 20-point and 10-rebound game of the 2023-24 campaign. The four-time All-Star's averaging 8.7 rebounds this season.
The Celtics will have their rematch with the Cavaliers Thursday night at 7:30 p.m.
