In a stunning twist during the NBA offseason, Boston Celtics starting point guard Derrick White has reportedly decommitted from re-signing with the Celtics and instead committed to joining the Phoenix Suns, league sources confirmed Wednesday morning.
White, who played a pivotal role in the Celtics’ 2024-25 championship run, had previously indicated a strong desire to remain in Boston long-term. The Celtics, too, had made it clear they intended to keep him, offering a lucrative multi-year extension. However, sources close to the situation now say that contract talks broke down over the weekend, paving the way for Phoenix to swoop in.
According to NBA insider Adrian Wojnarowski, White and the Suns agreed to a four-year deal worth approximately $112 million. The deal includes a player option for the final year and incentives that could push the total value even higher.
A Surprising Turn of Events
This development comes as a surprise to many across the league. White, 31, had cemented himself as a core piece of the Celtics’ title-winning formula. Known for his elite perimeter defense, clutch shot-making, and high basketball IQ, he averaged 14.2 points, 5.6 assists, and 1.2 steals per game during the regular season. In the playoffs, he took his game to another level, hitting several key shots in Boston’s Finals series against the Dallas Mavericks.
Boston GM Brad Stevens now faces an urgent need to restructure the team’s backcourt, especially with veteran Jrue Holiday aging and young guard Payton Pritchard not yet ready to take on starting responsibilities full-time.
“We thank Derrick for everything he brought to the Celtics organization,” Stevens said in a statement. “He was a true professional, a champion, and an incredible teammate. While we’re disappointed, we respect his decision and wish him the best moving forward.”
Suns Going All-In
The Phoenix Suns, meanwhile, are clearly going all-in. After falling short in the Western Conference Semifinals last season, the front office is doubling down on building around the core of Devin Booker, Kevin Durant, and Bradley Beal. The addition of White provides much-needed defensive tenacity and playmaking stability to a team that struggled with guard depth and perimeter defense in crucial moments.
“Derrick White is a winner,” Suns GM James Jones said. “He brings championship experience, leadership, and toughness—exactly what we need. We’re thrilled to welcome him to Phoenix.”
What’s Next?
With White’s departure, Boston is expected to explore the trade market aggressively. Rumors are already swirling around potential targets such as Malcolm Brogdon (a former Celtic) or Tyus Jones. Meanwhile, Phoenix may now emerge as one of the top contenders in the West, depending on how well White meshes with the Suns’ star-heavy lineup.
While fans in Boston are reeling from the sudden departure, Suns supporters are celebrating what could be a transformative acquisition. Either way, Derrick White’s decision has sent shockwaves through the league—and the 2025-26 NBA season just got a lot more interesting.
