0
0 The Boston Celtics, with their iconic green and white, are one of the most storied franchises in NBA history. Boasting 18 championships and countless legendary players, it’s no easy task to rank the top 10 Celtics of all time. But we’re taking a shot at it. Here are the ten greatest Celtics, based on skill, impact, and legacy.
10. Kevin McHale
When you think of unstoppable low-post scorers, Kevin McHale’s name comes to mind. A seven-time All-Star and three-time champion, McHale was a key piece of the Celtics’ dominance in the 1980s. Known for his incredible footwork and a seemingly endless arsenal of moves, McHale was the definition of efficiency, shooting over 55% for his career. His defensive prowess also earned him six All-Defensive Team nods.
9. Sam Jones
A 10-time champion and one of the best clutch shooters in NBA history, Sam Jones was a scoring machine for the Celtics during their 1960s dynasty. Known for his deadly bank shot, Jones averaged 17.7 points per game for his career and stepped up in the postseason, where his scoring average increased to 18.9. Few players were as reliable in the big moments.
8. Dave Cowens
Dave Cowens was the heart and soul of the Celtics in the 1970s. A two-time champion and the 1973 MVP, Cowens was an undersized center who played with unmatched tenacity. Despite standing at just 6–9, Cowens was a dominant rebounder, averaging 13.6 boards per game for his career. His versatility and leadership kept the Celtics competitive during a transitional era.
7. Paul Pierce
“The Truth” was the face of the Celtics for over a decade. Paul Pierce’s loyalty and clutch performances made him a fan favorite, but his crowning achievement came in 2008 when he led Boston to its 17th championship and earned Finals MVP honors. A 10-time All-Star, Pierce ranks second on the Celtics’ all-time scoring list and is one of the franchise’s most beloved players.
6. Robert Parish
“The Chief” was the steady anchor of the Celtics’ frontcourt during the 1980s. Robert Parish’s longevity and consistency were remarkable, as he played 14 seasons in Boston and became the NBA’s all-time leader in games played. A four-time champion and nine-time All-Star, Parish’s rebounding and defense were critical to the Celtics’ success.
5. John Havlicek
“Hondo” was the ultimate competitor and the Celtics’ all-time leading scorer. John Havlicek won eight championships and was known for his versatility, excelling on both ends of the court. His most iconic moment? The legendary “Havlicek stole the ball!” play in the 1965 Eastern Conference Finals. Havlicek’s relentless energy and clutch performances cement his place in Celtics lore.
4. Bob Cousy
“The Houdini of the Hardwood” revolutionized basketball with his flashy passing and playmaking. Bob Cousy was the engine of the Celtics’ offense during their rise to prominence in the 1950s and 60s, winning six championships and earning 13 All-Star selections. He led the league in assists for eight straight seasons and remains one of the most influential players in NBA history.
3. Larry Bird
Larry Bird is the definition of a basketball legend. A three-time MVP and two-time Finals MVP, Bird was the centerpiece of the Celtics’ resurgence in the 1980s. His fierce competitiveness, unmatched basketball IQ, and ability to rise to the occasion made him one of the greatest players ever. Bird’s rivalries with Magic Johnson and the Lakers defined an era, and his legacy in Boston is immortal.
2. Bill Russell
The ultimate winner, Bill Russell’s 11 championships in 13 seasons is a record that will likely never be broken. Russell’s defensive dominance and leadership were the foundation of the Celtics’ 1960s dynasty. A five-time MVP, Russell’s impact extended beyond the court, as he was a trailblazer for civil rights and social justice. His name is synonymous with greatness.
1. Red Auerbach
Okay, not a player, but no list of Celtics greats is complete without Red Auerbach. As the architect of the Celtics’ dynasty, Auerbach’s vision and leadership built the franchise into a powerhouse. From drafting Bill Russell to coaching eight straight titles, his impact on the Celtics and the NBA is unparalleled.
About The Author
