The top 10 Boston Celtics stories, as ranked by MassLive.com.
The top 10 Boston Celtics stories, as ranked by MassLive.com:
10. Big Three era over, but unstained
The Big Three ended with a loss to the Miami Heat, but the Celtics had nothing to be ashamed of.
9. Celtics oust Sixers in Eastern Conference Semifinals
Rajon Rondo scored 11 points in the final three minutes as the Celtics finally put the pesky Sixers to bed.
8. Avery Bradley's emergence cut short
From brick-layer to the improbable catalyst of a midseason resurgence, Bradley evolved quite a bit during his second season. But his season ended early thanks to the need for double shoulder surgery.
7. Kevin Garnett no longer has Ray Allen's phone number
What, you thought Garnett was going to take kindly to Allen's departure?
Terry still hasn't hit his stride in Boston, but his signing could still pay big dividends.
5. Celtics put Heat against the ropes with Game 5 victory
For a day or two, before LeBron James channeled his inner monster, the Celtics had the Miami Heat against the ropes.
4. LeBron James puts forth monster effort to win Game 6
The Celtics returned to the TD Garden with a 3-2 Eastern Conference Finals lead, with a chance to close out Miami at home. But LeBron James wasn't having it. He posted 45 points, 15 rebounds and five assists to down Boston 98-79 in Game 6. As the Celtics left the court, a "Let's go Celtics" chant serenaded them. The moment was special, but it marked the final time the Big Three shared a court as teammates.
Not only did Allen leave the Celtics, but he left to their biggest rival for half the money Boston offered him. Ouch. Kevin Garnett didn't really appreciate Allen leaving -- he no longer has Allen's phone number, and he didn't exactly embrace Allen during the season opener.
2. Kevin Garnett returns with a 3-year contract
We might overlook this now because Garnett has looked like his regular self this season, but he pondered retirement after last season. Ultimately, The Big Ticket decided he still had more to give to the game and returned on a three-year contract extension. His decision kept general manager Danny Ainge in "win-now" mode, but if he had decided to retire...
1. Boston Celtics fall to Miami Heat in Game 7
With a chance to advance to the NBA Finals, the Celtics jumped to an early lead. But their offense came apart in the second half, and Miami went on to beat Oklahoma City in five games for the title.