Boston Celtics: The Best Player In Each Season Of The 21st Century

The Boston Celtics are one of the most storied franchises in NBA history, and the 21st century has been no exception. While they've seen their ups and downs, each season has had that one guy who stood out as the heart and soul of the team. Whether it was the clutch scoring of Paul Pierce , the relentless defense of Kevin Garnett , or the all-around brilliance of Jayson Tatum , the Celtics have always had a player to rely on. Let's take a stroll down memory lane and see who was the top dog in green each year since 2000.

2000-01 Season - Paul Pierce

Stats: 25.3 PPG, 6.4 RPG, 3.1 APG, 1.7 SPG, 1.0 BPG

Achievements And Awards: None

Paul Pierce truly emerged as the face of the Boston Celtics during the 2000-01 season. After being drafted in 1998, Pierce quickly developed into a lethal scorer, but it was this season where he really took the leap into stardom. With a smooth shooting stroke and an uncanny ability to get to the rim, Pierce put up over 25 points per game, making him one of the league’s top scorers.

Though the Celtics didn’t make the playoffs that year, Pierce’s individual brilliance was undeniable. He carried the team on his back night after night, showing the kind of leadership and clutch play that would eventually make him a Celtics legend. This season was the foundation for what would become an illustrious career in Boston, setting the stage for Pierce to become “The Truth” in every sense of the word.

2001-02 Season - Paul Pierce

Stats: 26.1 PPG, 6.9 RPG, 3.2 APG, 1.9 SPG, 0.8 BPG

Achievements And Awards: NBA All-Star, All-NBA Third Team

The 2001-02 season was a breakout year not just for Paul Pierce, but for the Boston Celtics as a whole. Pierce elevated his game to another level, leading the Celtics to their first playoff appearance in seven years. His scoring average jumped to 26.1 points per game, and he became an All-Star for the first time in his career, a testament to his growing reputation as one of the league's elite players.

Pierce's all-around play was crucial in the Celtics' deep playoff run, where they reached the Eastern Conference Finals, only to fall to the New Jersey Nets. His ability to deliver in clutch moments, especially in the playoffs, solidified his status as the team's leader and primary offensive weapon. This season marked the beginning of Pierce's prime, where he consistently proved to be one of the top performers in the NBA.

2002-03 Season - Paul Pierce

Stats: 25.9 PPG, 7.3 RPG, 4.4 APG, 1.8 SPG, 0.8 BPG

Achievements And Awards: NBA All-Star, All-NBA Third Team

The 2002-03 season saw Paul Pierce continue to assert his dominance as the Celtics' undisputed leader. He averaged nearly 26 points per game while also increasing his contributions on the boards and as a playmaker. Pierce’s versatility was on full display, as he not only scored efficiently but also took on a larger role in setting up his teammates and defending the opposition’s best wing players.

Despite the team struggling with consistency throughout the season, Pierce's relentless effort helped guide the Celtics to another playoff appearance. His performances in clutch situations remained a highlight, often willing the team to victory in tight games. Pierce’s back-to-back All-NBA Third Team selection solidified his place among the league’s elite, proving that his impact extended far beyond just scoring. This season further cemented his reputation as one of the toughest and most reliable players in the NBA.

2003-04 Season - Paul Pierce

Stats: 23.0 PPG, 6.5 RPG, 5.1 APG, 1.6 SPG, 0.6 BPG

Achievements And Awards: NBA All-Star

The Celtics faced a rough season in 2003-04, with Paul Pierce standing as the team's rock amid constant changes. With the departure of several key players and a new coach at the helm, Pierce had to take on more than just the scoring load. He became a true all-around player, stepping up his playmaking and averaging over five assists per game, which was a career-high at that point.

Despite the Celtics' struggles, including a disappointing first-round playoff exit at the hands of the Indiana Pacers, Pierce’s consistent performance was the glue that held the team together. His adaptability, whether scoring, rebounding, or creating for others, demonstrated his growth as a leader. Even in a year of challenges, Pierce earned another All-Star nod, proving that he was still one of the league’s elite, capable of carrying the team through thick and thin.

2004-05 Season - Paul Pierce

Stats: 21.6 PPG, 6.6 RPG, 3.0 APG, 1.6 SPG, 0.5 BPG

Achievements And Awards: NBA All-Star

In the 2004-05 season, Paul Pierce continued to be the cornerstone for the Boston Celtics as the team underwent significant changes. Doc Rivers took over as head coach, bringing a new energy and system to the team. Pierce’s scoring dipped slightly from previous years, but he remained the team’s most reliable player, leading them in points, rebounds, and steals.

The Celtics finished the season with a 45-37 record, winning the Atlantic Division and securing a playoff spot. However, the postseason didn’t go as planned. Despite Pierce’s strong performances, the Celtics were eliminated in the first round by the Indiana Pacers in a grueling seven-game series. Pierce’s leadership and resilience were on full display, but it became clear that the team needed more pieces around him to make a deeper playoff run. Even so, Pierce’s consistent excellence earned him yet another All-Star selection, proving his status as one of the NBA’s top players.

2005-06 Season - Paul Pierce

Stats: 26.8 PPG, 6.7 RPG, 4.7 APG, 1.4 SPG, 0.4 BPG

Achievements And Awards: NBA All-Star

The 2005-06 season was one of Paul Pierce's most impressive individual campaigns. Despite the Boston Celtics struggling as a team, Pierce elevated his game to new heights, posting career-highs in points per game with 26.8. His scoring outbursts included several memorable performances, such as a 50-point game against the Cleveland Cavaliers, showcasing his ability to take over a game single-handedly.

Pierce’s all-around game was also on display, as he contributed in rebounding, playmaking, and defense, leading the team in nearly every major statistical category. However, despite his efforts, the Celtics finished with a disappointing 33-49 record, missing the playoffs for the first time since 2001. Pierce’s brilliance was undeniable, earning him another All-Star selection, even though the season was challenging for the franchise.

2006-07 Season - Paul Pierce

Stats: 25.0 PPG, 5.9 RPG, 4.1 APG, 1.0 SPG, 0.3 BPG

Achievements And Awards: None

The 2006-07 season was a tough one for Paul Pierce and the Boston Celtics. Injuries plagued Pierce throughout the season, limiting him to just 47 games, which was a major factor in the team’s poor performance. The Celtics finished with a 24-58 record, one of the worst in franchise history. Despite these challenges, Pierce still managed to put up impressive numbers when he was on the court, averaging 25 points per game.

Pierce's absence for much of the season highlighted just how valuable he was to the team. Without their star, the Celtics struggled mightily, leading to a disappointing season overall. However, this difficult year would set the stage for significant changes in the offseason, with the team looking to rebuild and give Pierce the support he needed.

2007-08 Season - Kevin Garnett

Stats: 18.8 PPG, 9.2 RPG, 3.4 APG, 1.4 SPG, 1.3 BPG

Achievements And Awards: NBA Champion, NBA Defensive Player of the Year, NBA All-Star, All-NBA First Team, NBA All-Defensive First Team

The 2007-08 season marked a new era for the Boston Celtics, with the arrival of Kevin Garnett transforming the team into an immediate title contender. Garnett’s impact on both ends of the floor was immense, bringing a defensive intensity that the Celtics had lacked for years. His presence in the paint and his ability to guard multiple positions were key to Boston's league-best defense.

Garnett led the Celtics to the NBA’s best record and was the heart and soul of the team throughout their championship run. His leadership, passion, and relentless work ethic set the tone for the entire roster, and his influence was felt in every game. In addition to his stellar defense, Garnett was a consistent offensive threat, providing scoring, rebounding, and playmaking. His efforts were rewarded with the NBA Defensive Player of the Year award, a testament to his dominant play.

In the playoffs, Garnett continued to be the driving force behind the Celtics, leading them to their first NBA championship in 22 years. His intensity and focus were crucial in the Finals, where the Celtics defeated the Los Angeles Lakers. Garnett’s arrival and his contributions throughout the season were the final pieces that propelled the Celtics back to the top of the NBA.

2008-09 Season - Paul Pierce

Stats: 20.5 PPG, 5.6 RPG, 3.6 APG, 1.0 SPG, 0.3 BPG

Achievements And Awards: NBA All-Star, All-NBA Second Team

With Kevin Garnett sidelined for much of the year due to injury, Paul Pierce stepped up as the primary leader for the Celtics during the 2008-09 season. He took on an even greater role, shouldering the responsibility of carrying the team through tough stretches. Pierce’s scoring remained steady, and his clutch performances were as reliable as ever, proving that he could still dominate games when it mattered most.

Despite missing Garnett, Pierce’s leadership and consistency helped the Celtics secure a 62-20 record, one of the best in the league. His efforts earned him a spot on the All-NBA Second Team, further cementing his reputation as one of the top players in the game. In the playoffs, Pierce continued to fight hard, but the Celtics were eventually eliminated in the Eastern Conference Semifinals by the Orlando Magic in a grueling seven-game series. Pierce’s performance throughout the season showcased his resilience and his ability to keep the Celtics competitive even without one of their key stars.

2009-10 Season - Paul Pierce

Stats: 18.3 PPG, 4.4 RPG, 3.1 APG, 1.2 SPG, 0.4 BPG

Achievements And Awards: NBA All-Star

As the leader of a veteran Celtics squad, Paul Pierce continued to be the backbone of the team during the 2009-10 season. While his scoring numbers dipped slightly, Pierce's impact was still undeniable, both as a scorer and as a stabilizing presence on the floor. He continued to deliver in the clutch, hitting big shots and making key plays when the Celtics needed him most.

The Celtics finished the regular season with a 50-32 record, and while they weren’t the top seed in the East, they saved their best basketball for the playoffs. Pierce led the charge as the Celtics made an impressive run to the NBA Finals, defeating teams like the Cleveland Cavaliers and the Orlando Magic along the way. In the Finals, the Celtics faced their longtime rivals, the Los Angeles Lakers, in a classic seven-game series. Although Boston ultimately fell short in Game 7, Pierce’s leadership and consistent play throughout the season and the playoffs were instrumental in getting the Celtics to the brink of another championship.

2010-11 Season - Paul Pierce

Stats: 18.9 PPG, 5.4 RPG, 3.3 APG, 1.0 SPG, 0.6 BPG

Achievements And Awards: NBA All-Star

In the 2010-11 season, Paul Pierce continued to be the driving force for the Celtics as they remained one of the top teams in the Eastern Conference. Pierce’s scoring was as reliable as ever, and he contributed across the board, maintaining his role as the team’s leader and go-to player in crucial moments.

The Celtics finished the regular season with a strong 56-26 record, securing the third seed in the Eastern Conference. Pierce’s leadership was vital, especially in a season that saw the team’s chemistry tested by the midseason trade of Kendrick Perkins. Despite the challenges, Pierce kept the Celtics focused and competitive. In the playoffs, the Celtics advanced to the Eastern Conference Semifinals but were ultimately defeated by the newly formed Miami Heat with LeBron James.

2011-12 Season - Paul Pierce

Stats: 19.4 PPG, 5.2 RPG, 4.5 APG, 1.1 SPG, 0.4 BPG

Achievements And Awards: NBA All-Star

The lockout-shortened 2011-12 season saw Paul Pierce continue to be the Celtics’ cornerstone as the team battled through a condensed schedule and various challenges. Pierce once again led the team in scoring, showing his trademark ability to score in clutch situations and lead by example. Despite being in the later stages of his career, Pierce remained as vital as ever to the Celtics’ success.

The Celtics finished the regular season with a 39-27 record, good enough for the fourth seed in the Eastern Conference. Pierce’s leadership was instrumental as the team navigated through injuries and an aging roster. In the playoffs, Pierce played a key role in leading the Celtics to the Eastern Conference Finals, where they faced the Miami Heat in a memorable seven-game series. Although the Celtics fell short of reaching the Finals, Pierce’s performance throughout the season and the playoffs solidified his legacy as one of the franchise’s all-time greats.

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2012-13 Season - Paul Pierce

Stats: 18.6 PPG, 6.3 RPG, 4.8 APG, 1.1 SPG, 0.4 BPG

Achievements And Awards: NBA All-Star

The 2012-13 season was the final chapter of Paul Pierce’s legendary career with the Boston Celtics. Despite being in his 15th NBA season, Pierce continued to deliver strong performances, leading the team in both scoring and assists. His ability to adapt his game, taking on more playmaking duties while still being a reliable scorer, demonstrated his versatility and basketball IQ.

The Celtics faced numerous challenges this season, including the loss of Rajon Rondo to a season-ending injury, which forced Pierce to step up even further as the team’s primary playmaker. The Celtics finished with a 41-40 record, securing the seventh seed in the Eastern Conference. In the playoffs, Boston’s run was short-lived as they were eliminated in the first round by the New York Knicks in six games. Despite the disappointing finish, Pierce’s consistent production and leadership were evident throughout the season, making it a fitting end to his storied tenure with the Celtics. After this season, Pierce was traded to the Brooklyn Nets, marking the end of an era in Boston.

2013-14 Season - Jeff Green

Stats: 16.9 PPG, 4.6 RPG, 1.7 APG, 0.7 SPG, 0.6 BPG

Achievements And Awards: None

With the departure of Paul Pierce and Kevin Garnett, the Celtics entered a rebuilding phase, and Jeff Green stepped into the spotlight as the team's primary scorer. Green took on the challenge, leading the Celtics with 16.9 points per game and becoming the go-to guy on offense. His ability to score in multiple ways made him a valuable asset, especially in a season where the Celtics were searching for a new identity.

Despite Green’s efforts, the Celtics struggled to find success, ending the season with a 25-57 record and missing the playoffs for the first time since 2007. It was a tough year for the franchise, but Green’s performance provided a glimpse of hope for the future. His scoring and versatility were highlights in an otherwise difficult season, positioning him as a potential cornerstone for the team as they looked to rebuild and move forward.

2014-15 Season - Avery Bradley

Stats: 13.9 PPG, 3.1 RPG, 1.8 APG, 1.1 SPG, 0.2 BPG

Achievements And Awards: None

During the 2014-15 season, Avery Bradley emerged as a key player for the Celtics, particularly during a year of transition and rebuilding. As one of the team’s most consistent contributors, Bradley provided solid scoring while also maintaining his reputation as a lockdown defender. His 13.9 points per game were crucial for a Celtics team that lacked a clear offensive leader for much of the season.

Bradley's defensive prowess remained his calling card, often tasked with guarding the opposing team’s best perimeter player. His energy and tenacity on both ends of the floor set the tone for a Celtics team that was beginning to find its identity under head coach Brad Stevens. Despite the midseason arrival of Isaiah Thomas, who brought a scoring punch, Bradley’s steady presence helped guide the Celtics to a 40-42 record and a playoff berth, although the Cleveland Cavaliers swept them in the first round.

2015-16 Season - Isaiah Thomas

Stats: 22.2 PPG, 3.0 RPG, 6.2 APG, 1.1 SPG, 0.1 BPG

Achievements And Awards: NBA All-Star

In the 2015-16 season, Isaiah Thomas truly came into his own, establishing himself as the heart and soul of the Celtics. After arriving in Boston the previous year, Thomas quickly became the team’s offensive engine, and this season saw him elevate his game to an elite level. Averaging 22.2 points per game, Thomas not only led the team in scoring but also earned his first NBA All-Star selection, a testament to his impact and growing reputation.

What set Thomas apart was his ability to take over games, especially in crunch time. Despite his height, he played with unmatched intensity and confidence, often outplaying much larger opponents. His fearless drives to the basket and clutch shooting earned him the nickname "King in the Fourth" for his late-game heroics. The Celtics, energized by Thomas’s leadership and scoring, finished with a 48-34 record, good enough for the fifth seed in the Eastern Conference. While their playoff run ended in the first round against the Atlanta Hawks, Thomas’s rise as a star marked a turning point for the franchise.

2016-17 Season - Isaiah Thomas

Stats: 28.9 PPG, 2.7 RPG, 5.9 APG, 0.9 SPG, 0.2 BPG

Achievements And Awards: NBA All-Star, All-NBA Second Team

The 2016-17 season was nothing short of extraordinary for Isaiah Thomas, who had one of the most memorable individual seasons in Celtics history. Thomas took his game to an even higher level, finishing the season as the third-leading scorer in the NBA with an astonishing 28.9 points per game. His performance earned him a spot on the All-NBA Second Team, as well as another All-Star selection, solidifying his status as one of the league’s premier players.

Thomas’s season was defined by his remarkable scoring ability, particularly in the fourth quarter, where he led the league in points per game during that period. His heroics helped the Celtics secure the top seed in the Eastern Conference with a 53-29 record, their best finish since the Big Three era. Despite battling personal tragedy and a hip injury, Thomas led the Celtics on an inspiring playoff run, including a 53-point game in the Eastern Conference Semifinals against the Washington Wizards.

The Celtics ultimately fell to the Cleveland Cavaliers in the Eastern Conference Finals, but Thomas’s grit, determination, and offensive brilliance made this season one for the ages. His incredible journey from being the last pick in the draft to becoming one of the NBA’s elite was the embodiment of the Celtics’ fighting spirit, leaving an indelible mark on the franchise.

2017-18 Season - Al Horford

Stats: 12.9 PPG, 7.4 RPG, 4.7 APG, 0.6 SPG, 1.1 BPG

Achievements And Awards: NBA All-Star, NBA All-Defensive Second Team

In the 2017-18 season, Al Horford emerged as the anchor for a young and promising Celtics squad. While his stats might not have jumped off the page, Horford’s impact was felt in every aspect of the game. His ability to do a bit of everything—whether it was scoring, rebounding, playmaking, or defending—made him invaluable to the Celtics’ success. Horford’s leadership and versatility were key reasons the team thrived, even after losing Gordon Hayward to a season-ending injury in the very first game.

Horford was the steadying force for the Celtics, who finished the season with a 55-27 record, good enough for the second seed in the Eastern Conference. His defensive prowess earned him a spot on the NBA All-Defensive Second Team, and his consistent play on both ends of the floor earned him another All-Star nod. In the playoffs, Horford’s veteran presence was crucial in guiding the Celtics through a deep postseason run, where they reached the Eastern Conference Finals despite the absence of their two biggest stars, Hayward and Kyrie Irving.

2018-19 Season - Kyrie Irving

Stats: 23.8 PPG, 5.0 RPG, 6.9 APG, 1.5 SPG, 0.5 BPG

Achievements And Awards: NBA All-Star, All-NBA Second Team

The 2018-19 season was a pivotal year for Kyrie Irving and the Celtics. After missing the previous postseason due to injury, Irving returned with a vengeance, leading the team in scoring and assists. His 23.8 points per game and nearly 7 assists per game were crucial as he took on the role of the team’s primary offensive weapon and floor general. Irving’s dazzling ball-handling and scoring ability made him one of the most dynamic players in the league, earning him a spot on the All-NBA Second Team and yet another All-Star selection.

Despite Irving’s individual brilliance, the season was marked by inconsistency and chemistry issues within the team. The Celtics finished with a 49-33 record, securing the fourth seed in the Eastern Conference. In the playoffs, the team swept the Indiana Pacers in the first round, but their postseason run came to a disappointing end in the second round, where they were defeated by the Milwaukee Bucks in five games.

2019-20 Season - Jayson Tatum

Stats: 23.4 PPG, 7.0 RPG, 3.0 APG, 1.4 SPG, 0.9 BPG

Achievements And Awards: NBA All-Star, All-NBA Third Team

The 2019-20 season was Jayson Tatum’s breakout year, as he officially emerged as the face of the Celtics and one of the brightest young stars in the NBA. Tatum took a significant leap in his development, leading the team in scoring with 23.4 points per game while also contributing across the board in rebounding, defense, and playmaking. His performances earned him his first NBA All-Star selection and a spot on the All-NBA Third Team, solidifying his status as a rising superstar.

Tatum’s growth was on full display throughout the season, particularly during the stretch run, where he frequently took over games and delivered in clutch moments. The Celtics finished with a 48-24 record, good for third in the Eastern Conference. In the playoffs, Tatum was instrumental in leading the Celtics to the Eastern Conference Finals, where they ultimately fell to the Miami Heat in six games.

2020-21 Season - Jayson Tatum

Stats: 26.4 PPG, 7.4 RPG, 4.3 APG, 1.2 SPG, 0.5 BPG

Achievements And Awards: NBA All-Star

Jayson Tatum continued his rise to superstardom during the 2020-21 season, establishing himself as the Celtics' undeniable leader and go-to scorer. Tatum's game evolved even further, as he posted career highs in points, rebounds, and assists, while also delivering several unforgettable performances, including a career-high 60-point game against the San Antonio Spurs. His consistent excellence earned him another NBA All-Star selection, reinforcing his status as one of the league’s elite players.

The season was challenging for the Celtics, who struggled with injuries and inconsistency, finishing with a 36-36 record and securing the seventh seed in the Eastern Conference. Despite these obstacles, Tatum was the steadying force for the team, often carrying them on his back through tough stretches. In the playoffs, Tatum’s brilliance was on full display, particularly in the first round against the Brooklyn Nets, where he scored 50 points in a Game 3 victory. However, the Celtics were eventually eliminated in five games.

2021-22 Season - Jayson Tatum

Stats: 26.9 PPG, 8.0 RPG, 4.4 APG, 1.0 SPG, 0.6 BPG

Achievements And Awards: NBA All-Star, All-NBA First Team

The 2021-22 season marked another significant step in Jayson Tatum’s evolution into one of the NBA’s elite players. Tatum not only led the Celtics in scoring with a career-high 26.9 points per game, but he also improved his all-around game, particularly on the defensive end. His ability to impact the game on both sides of the floor earned him a place on the All-NBA First Team, a testament to his status as one of the league’s top talents.

Tatum’s leadership was crucial as the Celtics turned their season around after a slow start, finishing with a 51-31 record, good for second in the Eastern Conference. His consistency and ability to rise to the occasion in big moments were key factors in Boston’s success. Tatum’s performances in the playoffs were even more impressive, as he led the Celtics on a deep run to the NBA Finals. His 46-point masterpiece in Game 6 of the Eastern Conference Semifinals against the Milwaukee Bucks was a defining moment of the postseason.

Although the Celtics fell short in the Finals, losing to the Golden State Warriors in six games, Tatum’s growth into a true superstar was undeniable. His ability to lead the team through the highs and lows of the season, combined with his stellar play, solidified his role as the face of the franchise and a player capable of leading Boston back to the top of the NBA.

2022-23 Season - Jayson Tatum

Stats: 30.1 PPG, 8.8 RPG, 4.6 APG, 1.1 SPG, 0.7 BPG

Achievements And Awards: NBA All-Star, All-NBA First Team

The 2022-23 season saw Jayson Tatum continue to ascend as one of the NBA's premier talents, leading the Celtics with a career-high 30.1 points per game, making him the first player in franchise history to average over 30 points in a season. His contributions went beyond scoring, as Tatum also posted career-bests in rebounds and maintained his playmaking and defensive responsibilities, further cementing his all-around game. His efforts earned him a spot on the All-NBA First Team and his fourth consecutive NBA All-Star appearance.

The Celtics, powered by Tatum's standout performances, finished the regular season with a 57-25 record, securing the second seed in the Eastern Conference. Tatum continued his strong play into the postseason, helping the Celtics advance to the Eastern Conference Finals for the second straight year. However, despite a valiant effort, the Celtics were defeated by the Miami Heat in a grueling seven-game series.

2023-24 Season - Jayson Tatum

Stats: 26.9 PPG, 8.1 RPG, 4.9 APG, 1.0 SPG, 0.6 BPG

Achievements And Awards: NBA All-Star, All-NBA First Team, NBA Champion

The past 2023-24 season was a monumental one for Jayson Tatum and the Boston Celtics, as they captured their first NBA title since 2008. Tatum, leading the way as the Celtics' star player, averaged 26.9 points per game and continued to be a force on both ends of the floor. His performances earned him another All-NBA First Team selection and an All-Star nod, solidifying his place among the league's elite.

Tatum's leadership was crucial as the Celtics finished the regular season with one of the best records in the league, as the Celtics ended up with the #2 seed in the East. In the playoffs, he guided the team through the Eastern Conference without much resistance, culminating in a Finals victory over the Dallas Mavericks. Although Jaylen Brown earned both Conference and Finals MVP honors, Tatum's impact throughout the season and playoffs was undeniable, cementing his legacy as a Celtics great.

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