<p>This year’s <strong><a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/shaq-and-dwyane-wade-explain-why-nikola-jokic-is-the-mvp-20220408-0010.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">NBA MVP</a> race </strong>was one for the ages. For the first time in years, there were at least 4 legit candidates who made a strong case to win the award<strong>. <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/sixers-news-joel-embiid-suggests-why-james-harden-hasnt-won-an-nba-ring-20220415-0021.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Joel Embiid</a>, Devin Booker, and <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/giannis-antetokounmpos-profile-age-weight-height-show-size-and-jersey-number-20220418-0028.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Giannis Antetokounmpo</a></strong> would’ve run away with the price 9 years out of 10.</p>
<p>In the end, however, it was <strong>Nikola Jokic </strong>the one who stood tall among the rest. Not only did he improve his metrics from his first MVP season but he also single-handedly led the <strong>Denver Nuggets</strong> to the playoffs.</p>
<p>And while the outcome of the season was far from what he expected, he still got the praise and recognition he deserved. Moreover, he joined an exclusive club featuring the likes of <strong><a href="https://bolavip.com/en/sports/tom-brady-michael-jordan-and-david-beckham-support-lewis-hamilton-at-the-miami-grand-prix-2022-20220508-0011.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Michael Jordan</a>, LeBron James, </strong>and not many more; becoming <strong>a back-to-back MVP winner.</strong></p>
<h2>NBA MVP: All Players Who Won Consecutive NBA MVPs</h2>
<p>+<strong> Bill Russell: </strong>1960-61, 1961-62, 1962-63<br> + <strong>Wilt Chamberlain:</strong> 1965-66, 1966-67, 1967-68<br> + <strong>Kareem Abdul-Jabbar:</strong> 1975-76, 1976-77<br> +<strong> Moses Malone</strong>: 1981-82, 1982-83<br> + <strong>Larry Bird: </strong>1983-84, 1984-85, 1985-86<br> + <strong>Magic Johnson:</strong> 1988-89, 1989-90<br> + <strong>Michael Jordan: </strong>1990-91, 1991-92<br> + <strong>Tim Duncan:</strong> 2001-02, 2002-03<br> + <strong>Steve Nash:</strong> 2004-05, 2005-06<br> +<strong> LeBron James:</strong> 2008-09, 2009-10 / 2011-12, 2012-13<br> +<strong> Stephen Curry:</strong> 2014-15, 2015-16<br> + <strong>Giannis Antetokounmpo: 2</strong>018-19, 2019-20<br> +<strong> Nikola Jokic:</strong> 2020-21, 2021-22</p>
<p>Jokic<strong> led the league in nearly every single advanced stat</strong>. Also, the fact that his two co-stars missed most of the season (or all of it) due to injury and he still led the Nuggets to the playoffs spoke volumes of his impact on the court.</p>
<p>As you can tell, the only two players who<strong>never won a championship</strong> on this list are Steve Nash and Jokic. Fortunately for him, he still has plenty left in the tank to change that and add an even bigger accolade to his already impressive résumé.</p>

Nikola Jokic, Steph Curry, and all back-to-back NBA MVP winners

Nikola Jokic, Steph Curry, and all back-to-back NBA MVP winners - Bolavip US

<p>It’s funny to think how different <strong><a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nba-t19117" target="_blank" rel="noopener">NBA</a> history </strong>would’ve been if it wasn’t for trades. Would <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/kobe-bryant" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Kobe Bryant</strong></a> had become such a legend if he had stayed with the <strong>Charlotte Hornets?</strong> Would the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/boston-celtics-t101837" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Boston Celtics</strong></a> beas dominant if it wasn’t for<strong> Bill Russell?</strong></p>
<p>There’s always something going on in the league. GMs are constantly trying to improve their team at someone else’s expense, and what might seem like a great deal at the time <strong>could turn out to be a disaster.</strong></p>
<p>Looking back, five trades have had a massive impact on the history of the Association, not only because of the pieces implied in the transaction but also because of how<strong> they paved the way for <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/The-15-Greatest-NBA-Players-of-All-Time-20200329-0002.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">unmatched legacies</a>.</strong> Here, we’re going to talk a little bit about that.</p>
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<h2>5 Trades That Changed The NBA Forever:</h2>
<h3>5. Dirk Nowitzki To Dallas Mavericks</h3>
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<figure class="image">   <figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" data-height="413" data-width="740" data-size="w:740,h:413" hspace="5" vspace="5" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20211214_BUS_180618_dirk_nowitzki.jpg_22993414_7cbf75cb.webp&amp;width=740&amp;height=413" width="740" height="413"></figure><figcaption>    Dirk Nowitzki – Getty Images   </figcaption></figure>
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<p><strong>Trade Package: </strong><em>Dirk Nowitzki &amp; Pat Garrity for Robert Traylor.</em></p>
<p>No one, not even the most optimistic<strong> Dallas Mavericks</strong> fan ever thought that <strong>Dirk Nowitzki</strong> was going to turn out to be as great as he was. He was just another skinny kid from Europe who wasn’t fast or athletic but had a smooth jump shot.</p>
<p>The <strong>Milwaukee Bucks</strong> weren’t exactly impressed by Dirk’s shooting skills and used their 9th overall pick just to trade him away to the Mavs. Dirk’s career got off to a terrible, slow start and he looked like a bust more often than not. Then, it all changed.</p>
<p>Nowitzki now has a shot at being considered the greatest foreign player of all time. He scored <strong>31,560 points </strong>throughout his career and changed the power forward position with his ability to stretch the floor. He had one of the most incredible championship runs of all time and even won MVP.</p>
<h3>4. James Harden To Houston Rockets</h3>
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<figure class="image">   <figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" data-height="413" data-width="740" data-size="w:740,h:413" hspace="5" vspace="5" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20211214_BUS_180618_james_harden.jpg_22993414_bef60958.webp&amp;width=740&amp;height=413" width="740" height="413"></figure><figcaption>    James Harden – Getty Images   </figcaption></figure>
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<p><strong>Trade Package:</strong> <em>James Harden, Cole Aldrich, Daequan Cook &amp; Lazar Hayward for Jeremy Lamb, Kevin Martin, a 2013 1st round pick, a 2013 2nd round pick, and a 2014 1st roundpick.</em></p>
<p>Regardless of how many draft picks <strong>Sam Presti</strong> manages to gather, he’ll always be judged for this trade. The<strong> Oklahoma City Thunder</strong> couldn’t keep both <strong>James Harden</strong> and<strong> Serge Ibaka,</strong> so he chose to re-sign the rim protector and trade away the Sixth Man of the Year.</p>
<p>That looked like the right choice at the time. He already had plenty of scoring with <strong>Kevin Durant and Russell Westbrook </strong>and Ibaka simply was a better fit for their needs. But looking back, the reality is that he traded James Harden<strong> over $4 million</strong>. FOUR million.</p>
<p>Harden went on to become one of the most explosive scorers in the league and the Thunder didn’t make it to the NBA Finals again. Moreover, they didn’t get much out of the draft picks they got, and neither <strong>Jeremy Lambnor Kevin Martin</strong> could provide the explosive offensive spark that Harden gave them.</p>
<h3>3. LeBron James To Miami Heat</h3>
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<figure class="image">   <figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" data-height="413" data-width="740" data-size="w:740,h:413" hspace="5" vspace="5" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20211214_BUS_180618_lebron_james.jpg_22993414_54b17fd0.webp&amp;width=740&amp;height=413" width="740" height="413"></figure><figcaption>    LeBron James – Getty Images   </figcaption></figure>
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<p><strong>Trade Package:</strong> <em>LeBron James for a 2011 2nd round pick, 2021 2nd round pick, 2013 first round pick, 2016 first round pick, pick swaps in 2012.</em></p>
<p>Contrary to what most people think, <strong>LeBron James </strong>didn’t just sign with the <strong>Miami Heat.</strong> It was a sign-and-trade and it got the <strong>Cleveland Cavaliers</strong> plenty of draft assets. Unfortunately, that wasn’t enough for the fans to forgive him right away.</p>
<p>LeBron’s infamous “Decision” and “Taking his talents to South Beach” made him one of the most hated players on Earth but it finally allowed him to blossom and <strong>win multiple NBA Championships.</strong></p>
<p>James cemented his legacy as one of the greatest players of all time and the Cavaliers were a bottom-feeding team once again. He spent the best years of his career side by side with <strong>Dwyane Wade and Chris Bosh</strong> before an epic homecoming that only made him more of a basketball legend.</p>
<h3>2. Scottie Pippen To Chicago Bulls</h3>
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<figure class="image">   <figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" data-height="413" data-width="740" data-size="w:740,h:413" hspace="5" vspace="5" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20211214_BUS_180618_scottie_pippen.jpg_22993414_bb438350.webp&amp;width=740&amp;height=413" width="740" height="413"></figure><figcaption>    Scottie Pippen – Getty Images   </figcaption></figure>
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<p><strong>Trade Package: </strong><em>Scottie Pippen &amp; a 1989 1st round pickfor Olden Polynice, a 1988 2nd round draft pick, and a 1989 1st round draft pick.</em></p>
<p>Yeah, believe it or not, the great<strong> Scottie Pippen </strong>could’ve played for the<strong> Seattle Supersonics.</strong> As a matter of fact, he could’ve been traded multiple times in his career but <strong>Michael Jordan</strong> demanded the <strong>Chicago Bulls</strong> to kill those deals over and over.</p>
<p>Pippen was exactly what the Bulls needed to turn the corner and become a competitive force in the Eastern Conference. He was the perfect complement for Jordan and <strong>his top-notch defense </strong>made them the best one-two punch in the league, and it wasn’t even close.</p>
<p>Together, Pippen and Jordan went <strong>a perfect 6-0 in the NBA Finals</strong> and turned the Bulls into the greatest dynasty of all time. They made the game global and dominated the league in an era that was just stacked with talent. He and Jordan are the reason why many Hall of Famers could never win a ring.</p>
<h3>1. Bill Russell To Boston Celtics</h3>
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<figure class="image">   <figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" data-height="413" data-width="740" data-size="w:740,h:413" hspace="5" vspace="5" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20211214_BUS_180618_bill_russell.jpg_22993414_ad864e22.webp&amp;width=740&amp;height=413" width="740" height="413"></figure><figcaption>    Bill Russell – Getty Images   </figcaption></figure>
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<p><strong>Trade Package:</strong> <em>Bill Russell forCliff Hagan and Ed Macauley.</em></p>
<p>The <strong>Atlanta Hawks </strong>franchise has always struggled to find success, but they only have themselves to blame for that. They could’ve had the winningest player in NBA history but instead traded him away for an aging star.</p>
<p>The <strong>Boston Celtics</strong> traded two players for the second overall pick, turning that pick into Bill Russell. Russell went on to become the most dominant force in the league, and perhaps the <strong>most dominant NBA player of all time.</strong></p>
<p>Even if Russell’s competition was far from the pros we see nowadays, he still made the Celtics the team to beat in the league. <strong>Winning 11 rings (8 consecutive)in 13 seasons, </strong>he’s the reason why the C’s are still tied for the most NBA championshipsall-time at 17. His numbers weren’t impressive at all but he’s one of the greatest rim protectors to ever live.</p>

Five trades that changed the NBA forever

Five trades that changed the NBA forever - Bolavip US

<p>For decades, fans and analysts have debated who’s the greatest player of all time. It happens in every single sport, and basketball clearly isn’t the exception to that rule, especially given <strong>how many legends the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nba-t19117" target="_blank" rel="noopener">NBA</a> has seen.</strong></p>
<p>Most of the time, the GOAT debate ends on two or three possible outcomes: It’s either <strong><a href="https://us.bolavip.com/michael-jordan-t85627" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Michael Jordan,</a> or <a href="https://us.bolavip.com/lebron-james-t92259" target="_blank" rel="noopener">LeBron James</a>, or Kobe Bryant. </strong>Not many people will tell you that the greatest of all time is someone outside of those three.</p>
<p>Then again, every now and then, someone brings up one of the older legends of the game such as <strong>Wilt Chamberlain, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, or Bill Russell; </strong>citing their unmatched dominance in their time.</p>
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<h2>Metta World Peace Says Bill Russell, Not Michael Jordan, Is The GOAT</h2>
<p>That seems to be the case with <strong>Ron Artest, A.K.A Metta World Peace,</strong> as he recently said on the <strong>Fierce Talk with Ryan Garcia podcast</strong> that Bill Russell is the undisputed GOAT because of all the rings he won:</p>
<p><strong><em>“I think Bill Russell is (the GOAT), honestly. Bill Russell got 11 championships. I look at Michael as one of the greatest. But I think Bill Russell is the greatest. When you can win in your era. That’s what it’s about. Winning in your era. And nobody dominated like that. Not even Michael Jordan,” </em></strong>the former champion said.</p>
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<p>Nonetheless, Artest’s words should be taken with a grain of salt, as he’s gone back-and-forth in this subject multiple times. He’s called Kobe, LeBron, and Jordan the GOAT more than once, so maybe <strong>he just can’t make up his mind.</strong></p>
<p>Bill Russell is the winningest playerof all time and his 11 rings <strong>aren’t likely to be matched.</strong> Ever. So even if he played during a softer era with mostly non-professional players, he still dominated as no one else did.</p>
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Metta World Peace explains why Bill Russell is the GOAT over Michael Jordan

Metta World Peace explains why Bill Russell is the GOAT over Michael Jordan - Bolavip US

<p><strong>There are players that every fan would have loved to watch playing in person</strong>. It happens in any sport, in every competition. In <a href="https://us.bolavip.com/nba-t19117" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>NBA</strong></a>, most of the current fans couldn’t see the amazing <a href="https://us.bolavip.com/boston-celtics-t101837" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Boston Celtics</a> that left a mark in the game’s history. <strong>Bill Russell</strong> is a legend that featured in those years.</p>
<p>Hewas such an important player that he’s one of those cases which lots of fans regret not having the chance to see on the court. <strong>The former center was part of that <a href="https://us.bolavip.com/nba/the-greatest-players-in-boston-celtics-history-20210217-0008.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Celtics dynasty</a> and he even spent his entire playing career in that franchise</strong>.</p>
<p><strong>Russell played for 13 years in Boston, from 1956 to 1969</strong>. He didn’t need to play anywhere else. There he achieved all the amazing records that explain for itself what a superb player he was. <strong>Five-time NBA MVP</strong>, <strong>12-time All-Star</strong>, and an NBAchampion with the Celtics on many occasions. Here we’ll take a look into Bill Russell’s rings.</p>
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<h2>The rings won by Bill Russell with the Celtics dynasty</h2>
<p><strong>Bill Russell has 11 rings from his thriving spell in the Boston Celtics</strong>, where he was the leader of the famous dynasty during those years in the NBA. That’s the greatest mark ever in the league, <strong>making Bill Russell the player that won the most NBA championships in basketball history</strong>.</p>
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<figure class="image">   <figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" alt="Bill Russell Boston Celtics" data-height="413" data-width="740" data-size="w:740,h:413" hspace="5" vspace="5" title="Bill Russell Boston Celtics" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20210308_BUS_169193_bill_russell_celtics.jpg_22993414_ebf27775.webp&amp;width=740&amp;height=413" width="740" height="413"></figure><figcaption>    Bill Russell, the winningest player in NBA history (NBA).   </figcaption></figure>
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<p>His record seemsextremelyhighfor anyone to even get close. To have a more clear idea of what <a href="https://us.bolavip.com/nba/25-incredible-NBA-records-unlikely-to-be-broken-20200430-0001.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">an amazing achievement</a> this one is, the ones who are behind Russell in this list are all players from thoseCeltics too. Not even <a href="https://us.bolavip.com/michael-jordan-t85627" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Michael Jordan</a> and his legendary <a href="https://us.bolavip.com/chicago-bulls-t101422" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Chicago Bulls</a> with six rings could repeat what thatsuccessfulBoston did.<span></span></p>
<p>Bill Russell and his eleven rings are enough to prove what a magnificent basketballerhe was and how majestic that Boston Celtics team was as well. Even the NBA Finals MVPaward was namedafter him since 2009.<strong>The former center is the winningest player ever in this game</strong>, and many people who were not able to see him in those years in person would have been glad to do so.</p>
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Bill Russell's rings: How many does he have?

Bill Russell's rings: How many does he have? - Bolavip US

<p><strong>Sam Jones, Robert Parish, Dave Cowens, Bill Russell, Larry Bird, Kevin McHale, Paul Pierce, Jeff Hornacek, Tom Heinsohn, and Bob Cousy </strong>are just some of the countless legends that have worn the green and white <a href="https://us.bolavip.com/boston-celtics-t101837" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Boston Celtics</strong> </a>jersey. They paved the way for those who came after and made them the winningest team in <strong><a href="https://us.bolavip.com/nba-t19117" target="_blank" rel="noopener">NBA</a> history,</strong> tied with the <a href="https://us.bolavip.com/los-angeles-lakers-t101482" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Los Angeles Lakers</strong></a> with 17 NBA championships. Needless to say, it will be a lot of time before any other franchise can meet any of them at the top.</p>
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<p>The Boston Celtics were the most dominant team in the world during basketball’s early days. They haven’t been as successful over the<strong> past three decades</strong> or so but they’re still one of the most popular and intimidating franchises in all sports.</p>
<p>Being a Boston Celtic is all about winning. Playing at the<strong> TD Garden</strong> means leaving everything on the court every single night out there but once you win the love and admiration of their fanbase, they’ll be by your side until the end. Today, we’re going to honor some of the guys who did it, by letting you know about the top 10 greatest players in Boston Celtics history.</p>
<p><strong>Honorable Mention:</strong><em><strong> JoJo White, Dennis Johnson, Kevin Garnett, Rajon Rondo, Danny Ainge, Nate Archibald</strong></em></p>
<h2>The 10 Greatest Players In Boston Celtics History</h2>
<h2>10. Sam Jones</h2>
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<figure class="image">   <figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" data-height="413" data-width="740" data-size="w:740,h:413" hspace="5" vspace="5" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20210217_BUS_168664_sam_jones.jpg_22993414_a8c70222.webp&amp;width=740&amp;height=413" width="740" height="413"></figure><figcaption>    Sam Jones. (via NBA)   </figcaption></figure>
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<p>While he doesn’t get nearly half of the credit he should, <strong>Sam Jones</strong> played a vital part in the Boston Celtics’ dynasty. He was Bill Russell’s gunman and the guy who carried the scoring load for the team while he anchored the defense in the paint.</p>
<p>Jones was a master of the mid-range and his iconic bank-shots was money more often than not. He was a gifted athlete and a savvy scorer who helped the Celtics win not one, not two, but<strong> 10 NBA championships.</strong></p>
<h2>9. Tom Heinsohn</h2>
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<figure class="image">   <figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" data-height="413" data-width="740" data-size="w:740,h:413" hspace="5" vspace="5" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20210217_BUS_168664_tom_heisohn.jpg_22993414_276ca57a.webp&amp;width=740&amp;height=413" width="740" height="413"></figure><figcaption>    Tom Heinsohn. (via The Athletic)   </figcaption></figure>
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<p>Once again, a player from the Bill Russell era who people don’t talk often enough makes our list. <strong>Tom Heinsohn</strong> was a physical presence at the four, and while he wasn’t as big as some of his rivals, he made up for it with his never-ending hustle and grit.</p>
<p>Heinsohn had a sweet scoring touch from all over the paint during his prime, and his ability to gain and maintain position made him a dominant rebounder on both ends of the floor. He played for 9 seasons and <strong>won 8 rings.</strong></p>
<h2>8. Robert Parish</h2>
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<figure class="image">   <figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" data-height="413" data-width="740" data-size="w:740,h:413" hspace="5" vspace="5" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20210217_BUS_168664_robert_parish.jpg_22993414_18011266.webp&amp;width=740&amp;height=413" width="740" height="413"></figure><figcaption>    <strong>Robert Parish. (via Sanford Health)</strong>   </figcaption></figure>
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<p><strong>Robert Parish</strong> is the kind of big man that would be perfectly suited for today’s game. He was a solid rim protector and defensive anchor that could also shock you every now and then from the perimeter, a walking double-double and the ultimate hustler.</p>
<p>Paris was the true definition of consistency during his 14 seasons with the Boston Celtics, looming below the rim next to Kevin McHale and helping them win<strong> 4 NBA championships</strong>. He was a willing facilitator and a better playmaker and ball-handler than most big men.</p>
<h2>7. Bob Cousy</h2>
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<figure class="image">   <figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" data-height="413" data-width="740" data-size="w:740,h:413" hspace="5" vspace="5" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20210217_BUS_168664_bob_cousy.jpg_22993414_e4623ceb.webp&amp;width=740&amp;height=413" width="740" height="413"></figure><figcaption>    Bob Cousy. (via Basketball Noise)   </figcaption></figure>
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<p><strong>Bob Cousy</strong> was perhaps the first truly great point guard in the history of the Association. He could run the break, find the open guy, and put the ball in a favorable spot for his teammate on every single possession. He made passes no other player could back then.</p>
<p>Cousy was a never-ending source of energy and had the best handles in the game during his prime, and while he wasn’t much of an efficient scorer, he had a great feel for drawing contact and getting his bread at the charity stripe. He<strong> won 6 rings</strong> with the Celtics.</p>
<h2>6. Dave Cowens</h2>
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<figure class="image">   <figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" data-height="413" data-width="740" data-size="w:740,h:413" hspace="5" vspace="5" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20210217_BUS_168664_dave_cowens.jpg_22993414_97f3d8bf.webp&amp;width=740&amp;height=413" width="740" height="413"></figure><figcaption>    Dave Cowens. (via Celtics Wire)   </figcaption></figure>
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<p><strong>Dave Cowens</strong> was the ultimate hustler. He wasn’t the most skilled or agile player on the court but his defensive relentlessnessmade him one of the most feared and respected players in the world. Despite being undersized, he could guard one through five.</p>
<p>Cowens was tough, physical, and wouldn’t mind putting his body on the line every single possession. His grit, grind, and desire to prevent a bucket at all-cost helped the Celtics <strong>win a couple of rings.</strong></p>
<h2>5. Paul Pierce</h2>
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<figure class="image">   <figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" data-height="413" data-width="740" data-size="w:740,h:413" hspace="5" vspace="5" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20210217_BUS_168664_paul_pierce.jpg_22993414_2771db76.webp&amp;width=740&amp;height=413" width="740" height="413"></figure><figcaption>    Paul Pierce. (via SB Nation)   </figcaption></figure>
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<p>While<strong> Paul Pierce</strong> was only able to lead the Boston Celtics to two NBA Finals and one ring, he still has a place as one of the five greatest players in franchise history, and perhaps the last true idol and icon they had.</p>
<p>Pierce wasn’t athletic but made up for it with one of the smoothest jump shots in the history of the game. He was a guy you could trust with <strong>a big-time shot</strong> and that thrived when it mattered the most, a top-notch competitor that would never back down from a challenge.</p>
<h2>4. Kevin McHale</h2>
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<figure class="image">   <figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" data-height="413" data-width="740" data-size="w:740,h:413" hspace="5" vspace="5" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20210217_BUS_168664_kevin_mchale.jpg_22993414_f02198f7.webp&amp;width=740&amp;height=413" width="740" height="413"></figure><figcaption>    Kevin McHale. (via YouTube)   </figcaption></figure>
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<p><strong>Kevin McHale</strong> was the living example that it didn’t matter whether you started a game or not. If you were good, you’d get your minutes. He had one of the smoothest foot-works in the history of basketball and was the perfect guy to play next to Larry Bird.</p>
<p>McHale has a strong case for being the greatest scorer in the post to ever play the game of basketball. In fact, those guarding him were known to be in ‘The Torture Chamber’ thanks to his skills and savviness. He <strong>won 3 ring</strong>s and was a tough guy who wouldn’t mind playing through injuries.</p>
<h2>3. John Havlicek</h2>
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<figure class="image">   <figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" data-height="413" data-width="740" data-size="w:740,h:413" hspace="5" vspace="5" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20210217_BUS_168664_john_havlicek.jpg_22993414_3023c3fb.webp&amp;width=740&amp;height=413" width="740" height="413"></figure><figcaption>    John Havlicek. (via Celtics Blog)   </figcaption></figure>
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<p><strong>John Havlicek </strong>was a tough and gifted athlete that could’ve also thrived in the NFL. He could do a little bit of everything and his defensive impact was only topped by his ability to score or get his teammates involved.</p>
<p>‘Hondo’ was a threat in passing lanes and could play – and defend – both guard spots and even at the three if needed. He was a terrific shooter for his time and one of the most iconic players of his time as well. The Celtics won <strong>8 rings</strong> in 16 seasons with him on the team.</p>
<h2>2. Larry Bird</h2>
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<figure class="image">   <figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" data-height="413" data-width="740" data-size="w:740,h:413" hspace="5" vspace="5" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20210217_BUS_168664_larry_bird.jpg_22993414_c17ac657.webp&amp;width=740&amp;height=413" width="740" height="413"></figure><figcaption>    Larry Bird. (Getty)   </figcaption></figure>
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<p>Long before LeBron James and Kevin Durant,<strong> Larry Bird</strong> was the unanimous choice as the greatest small forward of all time. The only thing smoother than his jump shot and footwork was his trash-talking.</p>
<p>Bird was one of the best shooters of all time but his defensive impact was also duly noted night in and night out. He won 3 straight MVPs and led the Boston Celtics to<strong> 3 NBA championships </strong>during the all-time high of his rivalry with the Los Angeles Lakers.</p>
<h2>1. Bill Russell</h2>
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<figure class="image">   <figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" data-height="413" data-width="740" data-size="w:740,h:413" hspace="5" vspace="5" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20210217_BUS_168664_bill_russell.jpg_22993414_b03c6ce7.webp&amp;width=740&amp;height=413" width="740" height="413"></figure><figcaption>    Bill Russell. (via NBA)   </figcaption></figure>
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<p>Younger fans tend to be petty to <strong>Bill Russell </strong>because of the time he played in. And while some of his accolades could be taken with a grain of salt, he’s still the winningest player in the history of basketball.</p>
<p>Russell was the most dominant defender in the world during his prime. He owned the glass and swatted shots at will, leading his team to <strong>11 NBA championships </strong>during his 13-year career. That’s never going to be topped or even matched.</p>

The Green: The greatest players in Boston Celtics history

The Green: The greatest players in Boston Celtics history - Bolavip US

<p><a href="https://us.bolavip.com/james-harden-t120183" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>James Harden</strong></a>completed a blockbuster move to the <a href="https://us.bolavip.com/brooklyn-nets-t99901" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Brooklyn Nets</strong></a>after requestinga trade from the <a href="https://us.bolavip.com/houston-rockets-t102082" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Houston Rockets</strong></a>, his team in the NBA for the last nine years. Harden is now entering a new chapter in his career and it’s time to check what moves made the waves move this way, before.</p>
<p>General Managers often get rid of potential stars because they don’t fit their current timeline or because they don’t believe that they’ll ever reach their ceiling. Then,<strong> they wind up dominating the league somewhere else.</strong></p>
<p>Luckily for us and for those executives willing to take risks, that’s not likely to change any time soon given the nature of the Association and today, we’re going to let you know about the <strong>7 biggest blockbuster deals in NBA history.</strong></p>
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<p><em><strong>Honorable Mentions: Shaquille O’Neal to Miami Heat, Dirk Nowitzki to Dallas Mavericks, Kevin Garnett to Boston Celtics.</strong></em></p>
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<h2>7. Robert Parish To The Boston Celtics</h2>
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<figure class="image">   <figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" data-height="413" data-width="740" data-size="w:740,h:413" hspace="5" vspace="5" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20201116_BUS_166068_robert_parish.jpg_22993414_5d1efd08.webp&amp;width=740&amp;height=413" width="740" height="413"></figure><figcaption>    Parish was drafted by the Warriors. (Getty)   </figcaption></figure>
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<p><strong>Trade:</strong> Two-first round picks in the 1980 Draft (1 &amp; 13) for Robert Parish and the 3rd overall pick in the 1980 Draft.</p>
<p><strong>Red Auerbach </strong>was a genius and not only because of his coaching skills but also because of the moves he made. Back in Draft night in 1980, he landed two-thirds of a core that would dominate the NBA in the 80s:<strong> Robert Parish</strong> and a first-round pick.</p>
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<p>The <strong>Boston Celtics</strong> traded two first-round picks and used the one they got in return to draft <strong>Kevin McHale.</strong> Then, McHale, Parish, and<strong> Larry Bird </strong>helped the franchise reach the NBA Finals 5 times, winning 4 NBA Championships. The Warriors, on the other hand, didn’t fare so well until the Splash Brothers came along.</p>
<h2>6. LeBron James To The Miami Heat</h2>
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<figure class="image">   <figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" data-height="413" data-width="740" data-size="w:740,h:413" hspace="5" vspace="5" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20201116_BUS_166068_lebron_wade_bosh_big_3.jpg_22993414_d91dccbf.webp&amp;width=740&amp;height=413" width="740" height="413"></figure><figcaption>    Cavaliers fans burned LeBron’s jerseys. (Getty)   </figcaption></figure>
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<p><strong>Trade: </strong>Two first-round picks (2013 &amp; 2016), two second-round picks (2011 &amp; 2012), and pick-swap rights in 2012 for LeBron James.</p>
<p>Contrary to popular belief, <a href="https://us.bolavip.com/lebron--james-t27090" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>LeBron James</strong></a> didn’t sign with the <strong>Miami Heat</strong> as a free agent. Instead, he completed a sign-and-trade with the <strong>Cleveland Cavaliers</strong> to ‘take his talents to South Beach’ in one of the most controversial and impactful moves in the history of the league.</p>
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<p>James went on to lead the Heat to<strong> 4 straight trips to the NBA Finals,</strong> winning a couple of rings. Until that, LeBron wasn’t mentioned in the GOAT conversation due to his lack of success in the playoffs, and his move to Miami helped him cement his legacy as one of the best to ever do it.</p>
<h2>5. James Harden To The Houston Rockets / Brooklyn Nets</h2>
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<figure class="image">   <figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" data-height="413" data-width="740" data-size="w:740,h:413" hspace="5" vspace="5" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20201116_BUS_166068_harden_westbrook_durant.jpg_22993414_65244c2f.webp&amp;width=740&amp;height=413" width="740" height="413"></figure><figcaption>    The Thunder drafted 3 MVPs. (Getty)   </figcaption></figure>
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<p><strong>Trade:</strong>Brooklyn getJames Harden in a three-way deal with Cleveland and Houston. Caris LeVert, Dante Exum, Rodions Kurucs, four 1st round picksand 4 Nets pick swaps goto Rockets. Jarrett Allen, Taurean Prince to Cleveland.</p>
<p>It’s crazy to think that the <strong>Oklahoma City Thunder</strong> drafted 3 future MVPs and Scoring Champions and didn’t win a single ring. Back then, there were doubts regarding <strong>James Harden’s</strong> potential as a franchise player and <strong>Sam Presti</strong> rathered pay <strong>Serge Ibaka </strong>and trade him to the Houston Rockets.The Thunder broke up their historically talented trio and James Harden went on to blossom as the most unstoppable scorer of the decade with the Rockets.</p>
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<p>Harden, however, could never deliver an NBA Championship to Houston and, after years of failed playoff runs, his frustration pretty much led him to force his way out of the team. That’s when Brooklyn Nets made an appearance to steal the player.</p>
<p>Brooklyn were linked with James Harden for quite some time before finally pulling the trigger on that move, beating Philadelphia 76ers and landing a big star to create a Big 3 alongside Kevin Durant and Kyrie Irving.</p>
<h2>4. Kareem Abdul-Jabbar To The Los Angeles Lakers</h2>
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<figure class="image">   <figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" data-height="413" data-width="740" data-size="w:740,h:413" hspace="5" vspace="5" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20201116_BUS_166068_kareem_abdul-jabbar_lew_alcindor_bucks.jpg_22993414_55932f53.webp&amp;width=740&amp;height=413" width="740" height="413"></figure><figcaption>    Kareem was known as Lew Alcindor. (Getty)   </figcaption></figure>
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<p><strong>Trade:</strong>Junior Bridgeman, Dave Meyers, Elmore Smith and Brian Winters for Kareem Abdul-Jabbar.</p>
<p><strong>Kareem Abdul-Jabbar </strong>had already outgrown the <strong>Milwaukee Bucks</strong> after leading them to an NBA Championship and it was pretty clear that he needed to join a big-market team that better fitted his talents. The <strong>Los Angeles Lakers</strong> made the most of the opportunity and lured him as Wilt Chamberlain’s replacement.</p>
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<p>Kareem would go on to lead the Lakers to perennial contention, helping them win 5 rings alongside <strong>Magic Johnson</strong> during the electrifying Showtime era. His durability helped him become the NBA’s all-time leading scorer and build the Lakers’ winning culture that persists to this day.</p>
<h2>3. Kobe Bryant To The Los Angeles Lakers</h2>
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<figure class="image">   <figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" data-height="413" data-width="740" data-size="w:740,h:413" hspace="5" vspace="5" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20201116_BUS_166068_kobe_bryant_draft.jpg_22993414_849c9751.webp&amp;width=740&amp;height=413" width="740" height="413"></figure><figcaption>    Bryant was drafted straight out of high school. (Getty)   </figcaption></figure>
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<p><strong>Trade:</strong> Vlade Divac for Kobe Bryant.</p>
<p>Can you believe 12 teams actually passed on<strong> <a href="https://us.bolavip.com/kobe-bryant-t127173" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Kobe Bryant</a></strong><a href="https://us.bolavip.com/kobe-bryant-t127173" target="_blank" rel="noopener"> </a>when he entered the NBA Draft as a teenager? More than that, can you believe the <strong>Charlotte Hornets </strong>actually traded him? Well, you must thank <strong>Jerry West</strong> for that, as ‘The Logo’ convinced the Lakers to trade aging star <strong>Vlade Divac</strong> to Charlotte in return for the shooting guard out of Lower Merion.</p>
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<p>It took him a while but once Kobe established himself as a starter, he became one of the fiercest competitor and most talented and dominant scorers of all time. His hard work on both ends of the floor helped the Lakers win <strong>5 NBA Championships</strong>, including a three-peat next to Shaquille O’Neal.</p>
<h2>2. Scottie Pippen To The Chicago Bulls</h2>
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<figure class="image">   <figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" data-height="413" data-width="740" data-size="w:740,h:413" hspace="5" vspace="5" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20201116_BUS_166068_scottie_pippen_draft.jpg_22993414_0753433c.webp&amp;width=740&amp;height=413" width="740" height="413"></figure><figcaption>    Pippen was the 5th pick of the Draft. (Getty)   </figcaption></figure>
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<p><strong>Trade:</strong>Olden Polynice, a second-round pick (1988), and a first-round pick (1989)to Seattle Supersonics for Scottie Pippen.</p>
<p>Even though he’s never gotten the credit he deserves, <strong>Scottie Pippen</strong> is one of the main reasons why the <strong>Chicago Bulls</strong> became the most dominant – and popular – team of the 90s. <a href="https://us.bolavip.com/michael-jordan-t85627" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Michael Jordan</strong> </a>got all of the spotlight and the headlines, but Pippen did plenty of dirty work to help them win both three-peats.</p>
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<p>Pippen was a gifted athlete and one of the greatest defenders of all time. His work on both ends of the floor often made things easier for Jordan, up to the point where MJ even demaned the team not to trade him later in his career. <strong>There would never be a dynasty without this move.</strong></p>
<h2>1. Bill Russell To The Boston Celtics</h2>
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<figure class="image">   <figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" data-height="413" data-width="740" data-size="w:740,h:413" hspace="5" vspace="5" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20201116_BUS_166068_bill_russell.jpg_22993414_09af5c9f.webp&amp;width=740&amp;height=413" width="740" height="413"></figure><figcaption>    Russell wasn’t the 1st pick. (Getty)   </figcaption></figure>
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<p><strong>Trade:</strong>Ed Macauley and the rights to Cliff Hagan to St. Louis Hawks for the 2nd pick in the 1956 Draft.</p>
<p>And, obviously, the most influential and impactful trade in NBA history has to be this one. The Celtics sent perennial All-Star and St. Louis native <strong>Ed Macauley </strong>to the Hawks in return for the rights to draft<strong> Bill Russell</strong>. The rest, as you know, is history, as he led the most dominant dynasty ever.</p>
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<p>While the league wasn’t nearly half as competitive as it is nowadays, it’s still impressive to see that the Celtics went on to win<strong> 11 NBA Championships</strong> during Bill Russell’s 13-year tenure in the league. That’s not going to be matched and he’ll always go down as the winningest player to ever lace them up.</p>

James Harden and the 7 biggest trades in NBA history

James Harden and the 7 biggest trades in NBA history - Bolavip US

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