Amid the Boston Celtics’ offseason of sweeping roster changes, veteran guard Derrick White emotionally reflected on big man Luke Kornet’s departure in free agency.
With superstar forward Jayson Tatum (Achilles) likely sidelined for all of next season, Boston has taken a step back this summer in anticipation of a potential gap year. The 2024 NBA champions moved on from starters Kristaps Porziņģis and Jrue Holiday in cost-cutting trades.
Meanwhile, Kornet, who became a fan favorite during his second stint with the Celtics, inked a four-year, $41 million contract with the San Antonio Spurs at the outset of free agency. Still, White has nothing but kind words for his former teammate.
How Did Derrick White Bid Farewell to Luke Kornet?
On the first episode of the “White Noise Podcast w/Derrick White,” released on Monday, White took the opportunity to thank each of Boston’s outgoing rotation pieces. Regarding Kornet, he expressed enthusiasm to see the 7’2″ big man earn his first major payday after spending his early seasons bouncing around the league, scrapping for roster spots.
“Luke, man, I’m so happy for him; nobody deserves it more than him,” White said. “This is a guy that was a two-way, was cut, Exhibit 10s. He could have had more money elsewhere, then came back with us, and for most of the year, he was carrying us.”
The eight-year veteran then raved about how Kornet evolved from a stretch five to a rim runner to provide the Celtics with a two-way inside presence off the bench.
“He’s probably one of the few people that has changed his game from a shooter to a non-shooter, and so, for you to change your game, especially in the middle of your career, it’s not easy to do,” White continued. “I feel like every time he was out there, he just brought the energy. The best teammate you could ever have.”
White concluded by praising Kornet’s character before predicting that the Spurs’ fan base will give him a warm reception.
“Just a great guy, great teammate, cares about you, cares about your family, and great family, great people. You hate to see him go, but you’re just so happy for him to get what he deserves, and I think San Antonio’s gonna love him,” White added.
While the Celtics’ future is in flux after years of contending, San Antonio is in a different boat. The upstart Victor Wembanyama-led squad is looking to take another step and secure its first playoff berth since 2019, with Kornet expected to play a key reserve role.
What Did White Forecast About Kornet’s Impact on the Spurs?
When asked about Kornet’s fit with San Antonio, White anticipated the journeyman making his presence felt from Day 1 with his infectious energy and high-IQ play. The two-time NBA All-Defensive Second Team selectee also weighed in on the possibility of Kornet forming an imposing frontcourt duo in lineups alongside the 7’3″ Wembanyama.
“He’s just gonna go in there and just bring energy. … They’re probably gonna play him and Wemby together, which is going to be insane,” White said. “… He’s just a guy that knows how to play the game the right way.”
Assuming Kornet’s rim protection and efficiency translate to his new home, his four-year deal, which descends and isn’t fully guaranteed in the back half, should age well.
