Before the Celtics lifted the Larry O'Brien trophy, Pierce proved himself as the leader and main engine of the team, displaying huge and clutch performances in the entire journey of the 2008 postseason. In his first real opportunity at a Finals run, after all those years carrying an abysmal Celtics team, Pierce delivered when it mattered most.

The Brooklyn Nets landed Paul Pierce via a blockbuster trade in 2013, expectations skyrocketed as a future Hall of Famer joined a roster built for a deep playoff run — all overseen by then-rookie head coach Jason Kidd.