Cavs Coach Praises Celtics' Derrick White as "Elite" on Both Ends

Cleveland's Kenny Atkinson explains why his team fears facing the Celtics' versatile guard.

Published on Mar. 9, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Cleveland Cavaliers head coach Kenny Atkinson spoke highly of Boston Celtics guard Derrick White, calling him "elite on both ends" of the floor. Atkinson noted that White's defensive impact is often overlooked, but that it makes him a great player in the eyes of coaches and players around the league.

Why it matters

Derrick White is a key part of the Celtics' success, but his contributions don't always show up in the box score. Atkinson's comments highlight how White's defensive abilities and all-around game are valued by opposing coaches, even if he doesn't always get the same level of recognition as some other star players.

The details

Atkinson said that while White's offensive production is impressive, it's his defensive impact that really sets him apart. The Cavaliers coach noted that White is an "elite rim protector" and probably the best guard rim protector in the league. Atkinson added that White's defensive disruption is "hard to measure" for the average fan, but that it's clear to coaches and players around the NBA.

  • The comments came after the Cavaliers' recent loss to the Celtics.

The players

Derrick White

A versatile guard for the Boston Celtics who is known for his strong two-way play.

Kenny Atkinson

The head coach of the Cleveland Cavaliers, who praised White's abilities after facing the Celtics.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“He's an elite on both ends”

— Kenny Atkinson, Cleveland Cavaliers Head Coach (Yahoo Sports)

“Probably people aren't measuring is his defensive impact”

— Kenny Atkinson, Cleveland Cavaliers Head Coach (Yahoo Sports)

“He really disrupts you defensively. He's an elite rim protector, and people don't really like a guy, probably the best guard, rim protector in the league.”

— Kenny Atkinson, Cleveland Cavaliers Head Coach (Yahoo Sports)

The takeaway

Derrick White's defensive abilities are often overlooked, but they are highly valued by opposing coaches like Kenny Atkinson who recognize the impact he has on the game at both ends of the floor. White's well-rounded game makes him a key part of the Celtics' success, even if he doesn't always get the same level of individual recognition as some other star players.