Derrick White could be candidate for Team USA spot?

Feb 10, 2023; Boston, Massachusetts, USA; Boston Celtics guard Derrick White (9) during the second half against the Charlotte Hornets at TD Garden. Mandatory Credit: Bob DeChiara-USA TODAY Sports

Derrick White’s breakout playoff for the Boston Celtics could lead to another opportunity for him this summer.

ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski reported Saturday that Kawhi Leonard’s knee inflammation remains a concern ahead of the Olympics, and Team USA is considering potential replacements should the need arise. Among those considered is White, who is seen as a real contender to make the roster if Leonard cannot play.

Woj says Team USA is preparing replacements for Kawhi Leonard if he’s not ready for the Olympics:

“I’m told Derrick White looms as a real potential candidate for Team USA in the Summer Olympics if Kawhi Leonard is unable to successfully rehab back from that knee inflammation… pic.twitter.com/Xoy3cWIEuC

— Tomer Azarly (@TomerAzarly) June 15, 2024

“Derrick White looms as a real potential candidate for Team USA in the Summer Olympics if Kawhi Leonard is unable to successfully rehab back from that knee inflammation that kept him out of the back end of the playoffs,” Wojnarowski said.

It would mark quite the ascendancy for White, who the Celtics landed for a fairly modest price in a trade one year ago. He has since become a vital part of the team’s rotation and is averaging 16.9 points per game in the playoffs while playing elite defense. He is a huge reason the Celtics are one win away from the title, and was even viewed as an All-Star snub this past season.

Leonard got the last spot on the Olympic team, but that was before his knee issues flared up again. It is probably a bad sign for him if health concerns are still lingering.