NBA Draft: Every team’s best pick ever

Jun 10, 2016; Cleveland, OH, USA; Golden State Warriors guard Stephen Curry (30) speaks to the media during a press conference after game four of the NBA Finals against the Cleveland Cavaliers at Quicken Loans Arena. The Warriors won 108-97. Mandatory Credit: Ken Blaze-USA TODAY Sports /

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SPRINGFIELD, MA – AUGUST 8: Larry Bird arrives for the 2014 Basketball Hall of Fame Enshrinement Ceremonyat Symphony Hall on August 8, 2014 in Springfield, Massachusetts. (Photo by Jim Rogash/Getty Images) /

Boston Celtics: Larry Bird, No. 6, 1978 NBA Draft

Drafted sixth overall in the 1978 draft, the “Hick from French Lick” played his entire career with the Boston Celtics, picking up three consecutive MVP awards and was named to 12 All-Star teams. For a team with decades of success and practically an entire wing for their players in the Hall of Fame, calling Bird the best pick in Celtics history is no small compliment.

Bird was the original “draft-and-stash” selection, picked as a junior and keeping the Celtics waiting with baited breath as he played out his senior season for the Indiana State Sycamores, leading them to the National Championship Game against Magic Johnson and his Michigan State Spartans. That rivalry would follow Bird to the NBA and set the stage for countless great matchups between the Celtics and the Los Angeles Lakers.

Bird helped the Celtics win the NBA championship in 1981, 1984, and 1986, leading the team with his shooting, rebounding, and playmaking, and establishing a new dynasty in Boston. His career wound down quickly as back injuries took their toll but Larry Bird was a no-doubt pick for the Hall of Fame, and is easily the best draft pick the Celtics ever made.

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