The Malcolm Brogdon trade cost Boston its first-round selection, which was transferred to the Indiana Pacers. However, Boston's second-round selection was subject to the outcome of the lottery. With top-32 protection, the Celtics' second-round selection from the Houston Rockets would go to Indiana rather than Boston if the Rockets' pick fell to No. 32 or higher.
One of the most famous NBA teams in history, the Boston Celtics, has a long history of success. Their aptitude for making wise draft picks is a key factor in their success. The Celtics have discovered excellent players that have left a lasting impression on the team's legacy over the years. Here we take a look at the top 5 best draft picks of all time:
Bill Russell
The most notable draft selection in Celtics history is Bill Russell. Russell, who was chosen as the second overall choice in the 1956 NBA Draft, would later transform the sport of basketball. His unrivalled shot-blocking skills and defensive brilliance propelled the Celtics to become a dynasty. Russell guided the Celtics to an unprecedented record of success as they won 11 titles in 13 seasons.
Larry Bird
It is impossible to exaggerate Larry Bird's influence on the Boston Celtics and the NBA as a whole. Bird, who was selected sixth overall in the NBA Draft in 1978, ushered in a new era of prosperity for the team. Bird, a forward with exceptional talent and versatility, helped the Celtics win three NBA titles and three MVP honours in a row. He was one of the best players in the game's history because of his intense competition and capacity to improve the performance of his colleagues.
Paul Pierce
Paul Pierce began a historic career with the Celtics when he was selected with the tenth overall pick in the 1998 NBA Draft. Pierce, a natural scorer and clutch player, rose to prominence as the franchise's face for more than a decade. He won Finals MVP honours in 2008 after playing a crucial part in the Celtics' 17th NBA victory. Pierce's second-place finish on the Celtics' all-time scoring chart solidifies his place among the game's all-time greats.
John Havlicek
In the 1962 NBA Draft, John Havlicek was selected seventh overall and went on to become a Celtics icon. Havlicek, who was renowned for his extraordinary stamina and adaptability, was crucial to the Celtics' success in the 1960s and 1970s. He contributed significantly to the team's unmatched dynasty and helped them win eight titles with them. Havlicek's commitment to excellence, perseverance, and capacity for success under duress confirm his status as one of the best Celtics ever.
Bob Cousy
The 1950 NBA Draft's third-round choice, Bob Cousy, completely altered the point guard position. Cousy, who is renowned for his superb ball-handling abilities and court awareness, was a key contributor to the Celtics' early success. Over the course of his career, he was a recurrent All-Star and helped the club win six titles. Future generations of point guards were built on Cousy's unique style of play and on-court leadership.
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