Paul Pierce has never shied away from standing up for the legacy of the 2008 Boston Celtics, a team he led to the franchise’s 17th championship. Recently, however, Pierce’s allegiance came under scrutiny when he was asked to compare his 2008 team to the current Jayson Tatum-led Celtics, viewed as one of the most formidable teams in franchise history.
As one of the most vocal proponents of Boston’s greatness, the Hall of Famer continues to champion the toughness and defensive prowess of his squad. During an appearance on the Dan Le Batard Show, Pierce offered a nuanced take on the matter.
Host Dan Le Batard suggested that the 2023-24 Celtics might surpass the 2008 team, prompting Pierce to respond with a mix of respect and pride.
I don’t know. We don’t know. It’s damn close. I ain’t gonna lie. This team is really good. Really good. But I will tell you this. I don’t know — we knew how to break teams mentally. So what we lacked in skill versus them — we had with will.
Paul Pierce said
Paul Pierce’s comments centered on the 2008 Celtics’ mental toughness. While he acknowledged the offensive firepower and skill of the current Celtics under Joe Mazzulla, Pierce emphasized the psychological edge his team wielded. Their ability to wear down opponents and break their willpower, he claimed, was a key factor in their success.
“This team is really good, but I will tell you this, our team we knew how to break teams mentally.” @paulpierce34 on how his Boston Celtics teams would fare against today’s Boston Celtics.
WATCH: pic.twitter.com/lNbiYVBqqO
— Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz (@LeBatardShow) December 2, 2024
The 2008 Celtics were a defensive juggernaut, ranking first in the NBA with a 98.9 defensive rating. Anchored by Kevin Garnett and supported by defensive stalwarts like Kendrick Perkins and James Posey, the team embodied grit and tenacity led by Finals MVP Paul Pierce.
Who would win: Jayson Tatum’s Celtics vs. Paul Pierce’s Celtics?
The hypothetical matchup between these two Celtics teams is an intriguing debate among fans and analysts. The 2023-24 Celtics boast offensive depth and versatility, with Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown leading the charge. Their high-scoring offense, complemented by a top three defensive rating, makes them a well-rounded contender.
However, Paul Pierce believes his team’s physical and mental resilience would have given them the upper hand in a head-to-head battle.
When you start getting guys in foul trouble in the first quarter and then they foul … Listen, I’ve been known to break a few wills. Sent some of them from Cleveland to Miami.
Paul Pierce quipped on the show
Paul Pierce’s comments directly showcase the contrasting philosophies of the two squads. The 2008 team thrived on unrelenting defensive pressure and psychological warfare, while the 2023-24 Celtics relied on finesse and precise offensive execution. The latter’s style might struggle against the rugged, physical play of the 2008 team.
The primary advantage for Jayson Tatum and the 2024 Celtics would be their incredible roster depth and the inherent advantage of playing during the three-point revolution. The ’08 Celtics rugged defense could only match up so well against the premier outside shooting on the current Celtics roster. No doubt, however, that the matchup would be a blockbuster.
