When considering the best player to don the Boston Celtics jersey in the 1980s, the majority would undoubtedly select three-time MVP Larry Bird. Those with a slightly different perspective might opt for Kevin McHale.
However, Michael Jordan once shared that another Celtics champion's grit and grind mentality was all he required to render his team invincible, thus giving Danny Ainge a huge compliment.
Jordan on Ainge
Danny joined the Celtics following their 1981 championship and worked tirelessly to earn a spot in the starting lineup of a stacked team. His scoring average increased from 4.1 to 9.9 points in his sophomore year, in which he started 76 regular-season games.
Then, in the 1983-84 season, coach KC Jones reduced the Oregon native's role and playing time. However, with undeterred confidence, Ainge worked diligently to increase his points average again and lead the team in steals.
Ultimately, by the 1987-88 season, the one-time All-Star's scoring average had risen to 15.7 points (third best on the team), while he ranked second in both assists and steals for the Celtics.
While Dennis Johnson primarily focused on the playmaking attribute and Robert Parish concentrated on rebounding, Ainge contributed through all facets of the game. Jordan acknowledged how resilient the guard was and how his grit and grind mentality was instrumental in the Celtics' success.
"I wish I had four Danny Ainges as teammates," Jordan said . " With his desire and hustle, we'd never lose a game."
This sentiment wasn't exclusive to the five-time MVP; even Bird recognized Ainge's valiant contribution to the Celtics.
"He's the best all-around athlete I've ever seen," Bird said.
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Ainge showcased his value after leaving the C's
If Mike's high praise was not enough, statistical evidence further validates Ainge's value. After leaving Bean Town, Ainge proved his worth with the Sacramento Kings, where he averaged 18.3 points per game in 103 games over two seasons.
More impressively, at the age of 33, his scoring average of 11.8 points in the 1992-93 season and narrowly missing out on the Sixth Man of the Year award. He once again played an underappreciated role in guiding the Phoenix Suns to the NBA Finals.
Unlike many players featured in the '80s and '90s, Ainge's heroics never got the spotlight, primarily because of the superteam he shared the court with. However, admissions like these from the all-time greats truly indicate the value the two-time NBA Champ had on his respective teams and within the association.
Related: "I'm not as enamored with you as these other guys; I've got some rings" - Robert Parish on why he was not intimidated by Michael Jordan
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