Boston’s New Big Three Rises

Following a last place finish in the 2006-07 season, the Celtics overhauled the roster. By adding superstars Kevin Garnett and Ray Allen to join Paul Pierce – forming a new Big Three in Boston – the team completed one of the most stunning turnarounds in NBA history. Combined with Rajon Rondo and Kendrick Perkins, the group each started at least 71 games. When those five were on the floor over 59 games, the Celtics outscored their opponents by 396 points – 140 more than the next closest unit in the league. The Atlantic Division champion Celtics won 66 games, the most since 1986, and (perhaps unsurprisingly) the Big Three were all named All-Stars. Garnett also won Defensive Player of the Year.