The Boston Celtics are the greatest franchise in NBA history, but even the best teams have had their share of disappointment over the years. We delve into the most heartbreaking moments in Celtics history.
Heartbreaking & Emotional Moments in Celtics History
Sports throughout history have had a variety of different impacts on people, one of the most notable ones being the ability to connect communities through the idea of togetherness. While many people see sports as a way to reminisce about old times or become a part of something bigger than themselves, few people actually realize the incredible emotions that can come from experiencing something in the sports world.
Injuries arise, contracts come to an end, or trades make the league an exciting but ever-changing scene.
Being one of the most influential organizations in sports, with a rich history of winning and impacting others on and off the court, the Boston Celtics have had their fair share of emotional moments. With great memories of glory and success come numerous instances of heartbreak and disappointment.
With that being said, here are the five biggest heartbreaks & emotional moments in Celtics History:
5. Gordon Hayward’s Injury
The 2017 Celtics were a team full of exciting new additions, as general manager Danny Ainge blew up his 2016 roster by trading away Isaiah Thomas and other notable members from his Eastern Conference Finals squad.
By trading away Isaiah Thomas for former Finals hero Kyrie Irving, Ainge began to address the need for superstar talent on his team. He followed that up by successfully acquiring Utah’s Gordon Hayward, one of the premiere free agents available at the time.
But, alas, tragedy struck Boston like nail on wood. Hayward played only 6 minutes into his 2017 debut against the Cleveland Cavaliers before suffering a dislocated ankle and a fractured tibia.
Hayward’s injury kept him from contributing to a team that returned to the Eastern Conference Finals, pushing LeBron James and the Cleveland Cavaliers to 7 games.
“I was just devastated that I wouldn’t be able to contribute, wouldn’t be able to have the season I wanted to have,” Hayward told reporters following his injury. “It’s going to be really important for me and my mental health to stay involved, to still be a part of the team, be around them as much as I can.”
Before agreeing to a deal with the Celtics, Hayward had broken out for one of his best statistical seasons of his career. He averaged a career high 21.9 points and 5.4 rebounds, along with some very efficient shooting from beyond the arc (40 percent from deep).