Top Performances by Celtics Stars
Throughout their storied history, the Boston Celtics have boasted some of the most talented and impactful players in NBA history. These stars have delivered electrifying performances that have solidified the team’s legacy. Here, we highlight some of the most remarkable displays by Celtics legends.
Larry Bird’s Triple-Double Exploits
Larry Bird, one of the greatest basketball players ever, consistently delivered unforgettable performances. His ability to dominate all facets of the game set him apart.
- On February 18, 1985, Bird notched a triple-double with 30 points, 15 rebounds, and 10 assists against the Dallas Mavericks.
- During the 1984 NBA Finals, Bird averaged 27.4 points, 14 rebounds, and 3.6 assists, earning him the Finals MVP as the Celtics defeated the Los Angeles Lakers.
- Bird scored 49 points, grabbed 12 rebounds, and handed out 7 assists against the Atlanta Hawks on March 12, 1985.
Paul Pierce’s Scoring Prowess
Paul Pierce remains one of the most iconic figures in Celtics history. Known for his clutch performances and scoring ability, Pierce consistently rose to the occasion.
- Pierce scored a career-high 50 points against the Cleveland Cavaliers on February 15, 2006.
- In the 2008 NBA Finals, Pierce averaged 21.8 points, 4.5 rebounds, and 6.3 assists, earning him the Finals MVP as the Celtics clinched their 17th championship.
- On March 13, 2001, Pierce delivered a memorable 48-point performance in a win against the New Jersey Nets.
Kevin Garnett’s Defensive Mastery
Kevin Garnett brought intensity and defensive prowess to the Celtics, helping transform the team into a championship contender.
- During the 2007-2008 regular season, Garnett's defensive efforts led to him being named the NBA Defensive Player of the Year after averaging 9.2 rebounds, 3.4 assists, and 1.2 steals per game.
- In Game 6 of the 2008 NBA Finals, Garnett recorded 26 points and 14 rebounds, propelling the Celtics to a decisive victory against the Lakers.
- Garnett's season-high 31 points, 21 rebounds, and 3 blocks against the Minnesota Timberwolves on January 25, 2008, remains an exemplar of his two-way dominance.
Isaiah Thomas’ Emotional Playoff Run
Isaiah Thomas became a beloved figure in Boston due to his heart, determination, and incredible scoring abilities during the 2016-2017 season.
- In the first round of the 2017 playoffs, Thomas scored 53 points in Game 2 against the Washington Wizards, the second-highest scoring game in Celtics playoff history.
- Through the postseason, Thomas averaged 23.3 points and 6.7 assists per game, despite personal tragedies that underscored his resilience and dedication.
- Thomas finished fifth in the 2017 MVP voting, and his season-high 52 points against the Miami Heat on December 30, 2016, remains unforgettable.
In the illustrious history of the Boston Celtics, these standout performances represent just a few of the incredible feats achieved by the team's legends. Fans around the world continue to celebrate these moments, as they epitomize the spirit and excellence of the franchise. For more on these historic performances and other great moments in sports, visit Arena Plus.