The Ranking of The Top Five Boston Celtics Players Ever

By making their mark once again in the NBA Finals, the Boston Celtics have proved why this team is the best of all time. In this best team, the top five players have performed brilliantly for the Celtics.

• Rajon Rondo (2006–2014)
• Bill Russell (1956–1969)
• Kevin McHale (1980-1993)
• Paul Pierce (1998–2012)
• Bill Sharman (1951–1961)

Rajon Rondo 

While he may not have the same individual achievements as some of the players on this list, Rajon Rondo played a crucial role in the 2008 championship season. Rondo, who led the league in assists twice while he was a member of the Celtics, was known as “The Conductor” for his ability to see the court and make plays. As evidenced by his outstanding performance against the Los Angeles Lakers in the 2008 Finals, his defensive determination and unwavering intensity were vital to the Celtics’ victory.

Also Read: Who is a better basketball player: LeBron James or Kobe Bryant?

Bill Russell 

Bill Russell is the unchallenged winner and top of this list. His thirteen seasons (1956–1969) and eleven championships with the Celtics tell a tale. Russell was a defensive mainstay who transformed the game with his skill at defensive rebounding and shot-blocking. Not only was he a rim protector, but in a time when the likes of Wilt Chamberlain and Jerry West were legends, his leadership and basketball ability led the Celtics to victory.

Kevin McHale 

Kevin McHale was a headache for rival teams because of his smooth, unusual shooting style and outstanding basketball IQ. Along with Bird and Parish, McHale was a three-time champion and a six-time All-Star. He was also known for his legendary “Hakeem Olajuwon Dream Shake,” which he literally created, and for his lethal post-up game. McHale was selected to multiple All-Defensive teams due to his equally strong defensive abilities.

Also Read: Top 5 NBA Teams To Reach the NBA Finals

Paul Pierce 

The core of Celtics basketball was resilience, toughness, and clutch plays, all represented by “The Truth,” Paul Pierce. Along with Kevin Garnett and Ray Allen, Pierce, an NBA Finals MVP in 2008 and a ten-time All-Star, carried the Celtics flag for a generation and helped them win a championship. His ability to score, especially under pressure, made him one of the most adored players on the Celtics.

Bill Sharman

Bill Sharman was a scoring machine before the word “jump shot” was invented. Sharman was a four-time champion and an eight-time All-Star, and his offensive efficiency was unmatched in his generation. He was a master at spotting open opportunities and had a fluid, fluid shooting technique that changed the game. Sharman was a vocal leader on the floor and a tough defender, so his influence went beyond just his scoring.

A Legacy of Excellence

The great talent that has blessed the Boston Celtics franchise is far greater than just five individuals. The Celtics have a long history of outstanding players who have made an impact on the game, including the great Bill Russell, Bill Sharman, Kevin McHale’s championship runs, Paul Pierce’s clutch plays, and Rajan Rondo’s court vision.

The Boston Celtics are among the most revered and admired teams in NBA history, in large part because of the commitment, passion, and winning mindset these players brought to the court.