Who did the Celtics have before Jayson Tatum? This question often comes up when discussing the storied history of the Boston Celtics, a team known for its rich tradition and talented roster. Jayson Tatum, who has emerged as one of the NBA’s brightest stars, has joined a long line of esteemed Celtics players. In this article, we will take a look at some of the notable players who graced the green and white before Tatum’s arrival in Boston.
The Celtics, founded in 1946, have a history of success that includes 17 NBA championships, the most by any franchise. Before Tatum, the Celtics had seen the rise and fall of many iconic players. One of the most memorable Celtics from the past was Larry Bird, who won three NBA championships during his tenure with the team. Bird, alongside Hall of Famers Bill Russell and Sam Jones, helped establish the Celtics as a dominant force in the NBA.
Another legend who paved the way for Tatum was Paul Pierce. As a 10-time All-Star, Pierce spent his entire 19-year career with the Celtics. During his time with the team, he won a championship in 2008 and was named Finals MVP. Pierce’s leadership and scoring ability helped the Celtics reach the playoffs in nearly every season he played.
In the years leading up to Tatum’s arrival, the Celtics had seen a few other notable players come and go. One of the most recent stars to don the green was Rajon Rondo, who won an NBA championship in 2008 and was known for his exceptional playmaking ability. Rondo’s tenure with the Celtics was marked by both success and controversy, but his impact on the team was undeniable.
Before Rondo, Kevin Garnett joined the Celtics in 2007, bringing with him a defensive mindset and a championship spirit. Garnett won a championship with the Celtics in 2008 and was named Finals MVP. He was a cornerstone of the team’s defense and a fan favorite during his time in Boston.
Another key player in the Celtics’ history was Ray Allen, who spent 10 seasons with the team. Allen was a sharpshooter extraordinaire, setting the NBA record for most three-point field goals made in a career. His ability to score from beyond the arc helped the Celtics reach the playoffs in his final season with the team.
As we look back at the Celtics’ history, it’s clear that Jayson Tatum has a lot to live up to. The list of players who came before him is impressive, and the expectations for Tatum are high. With a combination of talent, hard work, and a bit of luck, Tatum has the potential to join the pantheon of Celtics legends.
In conclusion, the Celtics have had a rich history of talented players before Jayson Tatum. From Larry Bird and Bill Russell to Paul Pierce and Kevin Garnett, the team has seen its fair share of stars. As Tatum continues to develop and contribute to the Celtics’ success, he will undoubtedly be compared to these legends. Who knows? With time, Tatum may just earn his place among the greatest Celtics of all time.
