Derrick White, Celtics beat Heat for second straight win: 9 takeaways

The Boston Celtics made it two wins in a row on Thursday night, defeating the Miami Heat 111–104 at FTX Arena. Derrick White led the way for the Celtics with 27 points, while Jayson Tatum added 26 points and 10 rebounds.

Here are nine takeaways from the game:

1. Derrick White is a difference-maker for the Celtics

White has been one of the Celtics’ best players since joining the team at the trade deadline. He is a versatile defender who can also score at all three levels. On Thursday night, White had one of his best games of the season, scoring 27 points on 11-of-18 shooting. He also had six rebounds and four assists.

White’s ability to score from anywhere on the court is a huge asset for the Celtics. He can take the pressure off of Tatum and Jaylen Brown, and he can also create his own shot. White is also a very good defender, and he can switch onto multiple positions.

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2. The Celtics’ defense is back

The Celtics’ defense had been struggling in recent weeks, but it looked much better on Thursday night. The Celtics held the Heat to 40% shooting from the field and 30% shooting from three-point range.

The Celtics’ defense was led by White, who had four steals. Robert Williams III also had a big game defensively, with five blocks.

3. The Celtics are playing with better energy

The Celtics have been playing with better energy in recent games. They are running more, and they are playing more aggressive defense.

On Thursday night, the Celtics forced 17 Heat turnovers. They also had 11 steals and six blocks.

4. The Celtics are getting healthy

The Celtics are finally starting to get healthy. Marcus Smart returned from a sprained ankle on Thursday night, and he played well, scoring 12 points and dishing out six assists.

Robert Williams III is also getting back to his old self. He had 10 points and five blocks on Thursday night.

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