After the Celtics lost to the Minnesota Timberwolves Monday in overtime 114-109, it’s clear that the absence of Derrick White was missed.

Although White was never the guy to drop 40 points on multiple occasions, this season he has proved so far to develop his game. So far he’s averaging 15 points, four rebounds and assists a game through the first five matches. With Jaylen Brown, Jayson Tatum, and Kristaps Porzingis able to consistently put up 20-plus, White’s contributions is what makes the C’s offense overpowering.

Last night the Celtics struggled to find a rhythm at the top of the third quarter (which has been a consistent theme), typically White is the one to settle things down. White isn’t afraid to make big shots, or defend the perimeter. To put it simply: he’s a winner.

The Celtics suffering their first loss of the season comes on the road, they got knocked off their high horse. Nobody expects the C’s to stay fully healthy all 82 games, so it’ll be up to the role players to put up points and knock down open shots. If it’s not White, than the Celtics are going to find themselves in trouble in a lot of away games.

Maybe Payton Pritchard can step up and play big. He signed a new contract before the season began, and he’s been having a larger role. The next couple games will be interesting to watch as they’ll play Philly on the road tomorrow.