Throughout his NBA career, Larry Bird became known as a player of unmatched skill. The Boston Celtics legend could score easily even if he was never the most athletic player on the court. He was also not above dropping more dimes than he should have and was not above using language It’s simple to view Larry Legend through that prism, considering him to be a fully developed talent who required no external instruction
. And there was no shortage of skill nearby if he did require some guidance. He could have spoken with Red Auerbach, Robert Parish, or Magic Johnson, an old acquaintance, if he wanted to pick someone’s brain.to his advantage.
But when it came to passing, Bill Walton was the only person on Bird’s list of priorities.
Seem unreal? Let’s investigate it.
When Bill Walton joined the Celtics, Larry Bird showed him some love.
It’s simple to recall Bill Walton as a huge “what if?” in terms of the NBA. The large man was obviously gifted, but he struggled to maintain his health. But when it came to what the UCLA Bruin had to offer, Larry Bird was clear.
Walton began pursuing a trade ahead of the 1985–86 NBA season in order to give it one more shot at winning the championship. He signed with the Boston Celtics instead of the Lakers, who were also interested in him. At the time, Larry Bird was at the peak of his abilities, therefore he was open to the idea.
According to Larry Legend, “we just have to make sure we rest this guy, that we keep him from getting injured,” according to a 1979 UPI story (h/t LA Times). “With him, it will be much easier for us to win a championship than it would be without him. I’ve never seen a better passer than him in my entire life.
