In that hyper intense pressured situation, DJ's hoop IQ says all you need to know about him. Breaking towards the basket so quickly was athletic brilliance.
The Bird steal is great and deserves the legendary status. But any time I've ever seen the play (probably hundreds of times over the years), I've always been more impressed with Dennis Johnson's make of the lay-up. Under pressure and with very little time, sometimes the "easiest" things become the most difficult. One inch of a different amount of pressure on the ball, or on a different location on the backboard, and the lay-up clanks out. The cool, efficient catch of the pass and make of the lay-up is what always amazes me about this play.
Yea, also Defense effort. Traveling, double dribble, caring the ball called. Hard inside play and drives to the basket with bodies in lanes trying to stop. The NBA now is boring and stinks...
The greatest ending in NBA history and Bird's play will live long after he's gone. I've heard Isiah's remembrance of Bird's steal and he was in awe of Bird. He said that Bird not only intercepted the ball but had the wherewithal to balance on his toes and not step out of bounds. He was doing this right after he stole the ball and spun around to see who to pass it to while he is falling back. Then throws a dart to DJ and the rest is history. A great play of anticipation, body control, mental awareness and athleticism. Though not the most athletic, Bird was the most gifted pure basketball player ever and there will never be another. He was born to play the game and a complete natural. The GOAT.
Great game. It’s so very fitting that Bird is most remembered for a hustle play. That guy played harder than almost anybody I’ve ever seen. I think he got two minutes rest in this whole game and still had enough energy left to make one of the most legendary plays in the league history. Heroes never die.
@@Kingeptacon the more you look at the quote, the less meaning it has, like a Yogi Berra quote. "Heroes are remembered". fine, "BUT legends never die" . ??? No difference. But what? That also means, simply that legends (the stories) are also not forgotten. Are remembered . Unless he meant the more vernacular use of "legend", referring to the hero, and not the story. But it doesn't matter. It makes no sense, either way, because, heroes do die. Not very deep. Also, wrong on all accounts. All heroes and legends are eventually forgotten. But I didn't get a good grade in baseball poetry so, what do i know? At least you gave us the correct quote.
@@MarkTarmannPianoCheck_it_out I might be butchering this explanation but here goes. I think he means that heroes are remembered in the short term. As in they’ll be remembered for a generation or two and then kind of fade out. Whereas legends will be passed down for generations to come because of how grandiose their career and/or life was. For example, a firefighter that saves a little girl from a burning window is a hero. But after everybody that was involved dies off he’ll be forgotten because the story was only contained locally. But say, an iconic sports figure that touched millions of lives who had a much broader reach that had an exponentially greater impact on society will be remembered for far longer.
Robert Parish deserve a lot credit for being a warrior with a messed up ankle. Today's players always talking about easier schedules and they couldn't fathom playing through something like that.
@Sheha Nagaraj personality has nothing to do with on court production and therefore it doesn't matter he is undeniably among the greatest in all around players
@Sheha Nagaraj your opinion is yours. But I like facts and the statistical facts in just about every way prove otherwise. Not to mention the facts of eye tests and accolades
DJ could have stayed right where he was because he was wide open at that time, and if he had taken the shot, it would have been about a 10-footer. But, a layup is even better. Great awareness and reaction to the steal!
people really underrate how loaded those bad boy pistons were talent wise, they only talk about them because of their physicality but they were a complete team loaded with talent. they had 4 legit scoring threats along with great defensive versatility. they almost made it to the finals 4 times in a row, made it 3 times and won back to back. they should be talked about as more than just a road block for michael jordan (i'm saying this as a die hard bulls fan) because they were really one of the greatest teams ever with one of the greatest players ever leading them in isiah thomas
Well said. This team had FOUR future Hall of Famers (Thomas, Dumars, Dantley, Rodman). They were just an anomaly in how they were built, but people act like they were the 2004 Pistons when in reality, they could (and did) play fast, they scored well over 100 points a game, and they were efficient offensively.
They were great but Isaiah and Lamebeer are two of the most idiotic players in league history and Rodman is an embarrassment to humanity. Their unlikeability factors in.
Bird got the steal, but watch closely: It was set up by McHale's awareness and DJ's confusion! After the ball goes out of bounds, watch McHale. He quickly realizes (pause it at 1:53:05) that 3 unguarded Pistons are running toward the open basket. McHale is supposed to guard Laimbeer, but instead runs to the other end to protect the basket. As he's leaving (pause it at 1:53:06), McHale yells at DJ to cover Laimbeer. But watch DJ: He doesn't hear McHale. Instead, DJ is looking around for Dumars, the man he's supposed to guard. This momentary confusion leaves Laimbeer wide open at the baseline. Now watch Bird. He's looking at Isaiah and sees the throw will go to Laimbeer, (pause it at 1:53:07) so Bird races over to make the steal. The throw-in catches DJ's attention, who turns around just in time to see Bird make the steal, so DJ instinctively streaks to the basket.
Bird ran at lamebeir to cover him because he was open and unguarded, ,Zeek didn't even see brid running at lamebeir lol. Zeek never inbounds which is funny he thought he could do it and choked
Your synopsis is wrong! It was very fluid when the ball was lost out of bounds and then with the attempted quick in-bounds by Isaiah. There was indeed some confusion, because guys were out of position and attempting to get back into position. Everybody figured a time out would be called as well but that didn't occur. So, two Pistons broke toward the other end after the ball was lost out of bounds. McHale actually made the mistake by following them and coming off Lambeer. This is what caused the confusion because it left D.J. to cover Lambeer which was a mismatch. That's why D.J. glances back, as he is looking for McHale who is nowhere near the play; so D.J.'s focus then goes back toward the ball. McHale was appealing to a line judge, he wasn't directing D.J. Bird initially covered Dumars but he broke toward the ball when he saw Isaiah passing to the open Lambeer. When Bird came off Dumars, D.J. started to move toward Dumars to cover. However, when D.J. saw Bird steal the ball he immediately broke toward the basket, as did Dumars. All of this occurred within a split second. Dumars was one of the best defenders and he actually got to the point quicker than D.J. but his block attempt failed when D.J. leaned under it and made the under hand layup. The rest is history. The game would have been over had Isaiah simply called time out or had he thrown the ball to the other end for the in-bounds pass. D.J. and Bird were simply fast thinkers and both of them reacted instantly to defend and then to steal the game away. Unbelievable play.
Shooting slump? Bird had 36 points in this game. Not to mention his 12 rebounds and 9 assists. The incredible game winning steal & assist to DJ is the icing on the cake and a history making type play.
I'll agree with u on a good play but u obviously don't hoop cuz anyone n this time & age knows we 2 smart quicker & skilled 4 that nursery rhyme play😄🤦🏽♂️
The HOWARD Thats a trick play bro. It’s like a football switch where the wr throws it to the qb, has nothing to do with athleticism and speed, has everything to do with being at the right place at the right time
The HOWARD how much of an ego do you need to have for that lmao It’s just an entry pass and if anything you see that less nowadays Get a bucket however you can
fabian Heilbron Ha! Bra U crazy as hell if u think that with trying 2 compare B-Ball 2 a option type play🙄🤦🏽♂️ Last time I check in basketball everyone can handle the rock & in football yo center won't b doing 2 much extra but blocking & hiking the ball damn sure no Center option trick play
This was the season, especially the 1987 playoffs when the Pistons began to use that 'bad boy' image with very physical style of play and intimidation. This series revealed it since both of these teams didn't like each other.
Doug Collins commentaring reminds me Jeff Van Gundy. I love it. By the way, great game, one of the best match ups in 80's, Larry, Dumars, Isiah and McHale really brought everything to the floor and gave us unforgetable playoffs games.
What’s really nice to see is how Bird didn’t really slow down after getting blocked. He was still hunting for whatever opportunity and that got him the steal.
Yeah the best game in the NBA history. Honestly, I don't know why, I think the Celtics-Piston playoffs game are more exciting than the Magic-Kareem_Worthy Lakers vs Bird Celtics.
As a life long Boston Celtics fan, I will fully admit the better team did NOT win this game or series. The team that had the most heart and grit won the series. The 86-87 Celtics endured some extremely tough breaks. Bias dying, Wedman and Walton hurt all year long and then one major injury after another in the 87 playoffs and if not for Magic's hook plus some totally one sided officiating in Game 4 of the 1987 Finals, they would have pushed the best Lakers team ever to a Game 7 where anything could've happened. The 86 Celtics were the greatest team of all time but the 87 Celtics were the most courageous team of all time.
Yup. All while the Lakers were resting in the sun after going thru an inferior Western Conference. 82, 85, and 87 Lakers were lucky because they faced a much better team each year in the finals that had just finished a war with their opponent in the ECF.
What makes this even better is knowing Isaiah has sleepless nights to this day reliving that inbound pass. Priceless. To this day is still talked about as a great win for the Celtics and an epic fail by the leader of the Pistons. Its insane to think Bird has the presence of mind to NOT call a timeout. Idk how he processed all that so quickly.
@@pistolnowood2044 Zeek is a butthurt little turd. He's still crying about MJ who owned him pick up games in Chicago when MJ was still in college and Zeek was the man. Zeek got shut down repeatedly and that started his hatred towards MJ that's never ended. Zeek still can't stop crying about MJ this or that. I'm glad he choked and gave bird the infamous steal.
You can argue Bird is on the same level or slightly better than Lebron or other greats curently. Bird the type of player who would be the best player in this current NBA generation with his skill set. Can do it all.
Absolutely incredible. I've seen the highlight of Bird's steal 100s of times be never realized how quick it was from the foul out of bounds. Maybe for some reason I assumed there was a time out before the inbound pass. This makes it even more incredible! Also never seen the whole game so, this was a treat! Thanks!
That's where Detroit messed up. They could have called a time out and then in-bounded. I watched the entire game live (Boston was my team) and this was one of the greatest sports plays ever. I was staying with my pregnant sister while her husband was out of town, and all I could do was jump up and down like crazy. I couldn't scream because she was sleeping. I'll never forget it.
As a kid that was an absolute DIE HARD, Converse weapon wearing, Showtime watching, Magic poster having Lakers fan, I HATED THE CELTICS. And I HATED LARRY BIRD. As a fan of the game who appreciate the history I was blessed to live through...Larry was a baaaaaaaaaaad man. It made those 85 and 87 titles sweeter because we had to beat a legitimate champion and great great player to win them.
I was on the phone with a friend when Bird stole the ball. The friend wasn’t a basketball fan at all, and I was casually watching the game. But in that moment I became a play-by-play announcer over the phone, because what transpired before me was truly shocking.
I was born in 91 but I herd alot about how legendary Larry Brid was so I wanted to see the hype, mannnnnn what a fucking dude 😂😂😂, he was different beast! Drop him in any Era he killing fools. How was he so damn great 😂😂. Skill, effort, IQ, confidence buddy had all 2k stats maxed out. That's a bad white man on the court😤🫱🏾🫲🏿🤙🏿🫡
This moment perfectly illustrates why you don't celebrate like idiots until the clock shows 00:00 !!! You see the younger Pistons , especially Rodman , celebrating like fools , a win that hasn't been decided yet . They didn't respect the brilliance and determination of Larry Legend and DJ . They both did not stop and hang their heads and mope like losers, as seasoned Champions they ACTED and made one of the most memorable events in sports history .
Let me set the record straight once and for all Larry Bird greatest small forward of all time without doubt its the intangible things that make a player great anyone who truly studies the game must agree
If your referring to Labron James As number 1 no disrespect but give me bird all day especially if the games on the line or a free throw needs to be made
1:21:47 You’ll see Chuck Daly covering his mouth as talks. That’s because the Celts used to have lip readers in the stadium and would get the info to the Celts coaching staff. It wasn’t illegal in the NBA and several teams did it
The first game they showed on a BBC highlights show in England .European Ball was boring .Different rules .This was like watching sport from another galaxy. Brilliant. And the most famous steal in NBA history .👍
As a Lakers fan, I always hated Boston and especially Larry Bird. They were so damn good, and they made life tough for the Lakers; as history shows they were a great rivalry and we all learned to respect each other. But this particular game, and how it finished, has got to still--even after the Championships Detroit won--hurt a Piston's fan like salt on an open wound. The greatest clutch steal/pass/make of all time IMO.
As a Lakers fan, I always hated Boston and especially Larry Bird. They were so damn good, and they made life tough for the Lakers; as history shows they were a great rivalry and we all learned to respect each other. But this particular game, and how it finished, has got to still--even after the Championships Detroit won--hurt a Piston's fan like salt on an open wound. The greatest clutch steal/pass/make of all time IMO.
The timekeeper absolutely hosed the Pistons at the end. The ball hit out of bounds well before the buzzer, but that guy was going to get that last second off the clock by hook or crook.
Crazy to think what this '87 Celtic team couldve been if Walton could stay healthy and they had Bias. '86 squad is often in the "best team ever" discussion, but '87 wouldve ended any debate, in my opinion.
If Bird doesn't come up with that steal, the series is, in effect, over. Boston would otherwise have had to go back to Detroit down 3-2. Given their struggles on the road in these playoffs, and also the fact that they had been pounded twice in Detroit the previous weekend, the odds of them pulling off a Game 6 win were very long indeed.
Never celebrate until the clock reads 00:00. Rodman raised his hands like the game was over but he forgot that there was a hillbilly with 33 on his jersey that was always 3 moves ahead of everyone else out there, fighting the good fight.
Llevo 35 años llorando ese pase de Isahias Thomas 🥺😭. 🤔 pero al mismo tiempo todavía veo a Bill Lambier tan solo para resivir ese pase que todavía no entiendo cómo pudo haber pasado aunque vea la repetición 1,000 veces🤔🤷🤦🙄
Lakers vs Nuggets - Game 4 - 2008 Suns vs Spurs - Game 4 - 2005 Suns vs Mavericks - Game 6 - 2005 76ers vs Bucks - Game 6 - 2001 Hornets vs Magic - Game 3 - 2002 Cavaliers vs Hawks - Game 3 - 2009 Nuggets vs Mavericks - Game 4 - 2009 Spurs vs Hornets - Game 5 - 2008 Wizards vs Bulls - Game 5 - 2005 Celtics vs Heat - Game 4 - 2010 Bucks vs Magic - Game 3 - 2001 Thanks
sure, DJ and Parish were there day after day, night after night. They are talked about less, but both hall-of-famers who played like great Celtics. Aurebach was the soul of the Celtics and his vision was the vision that became Celtic basketball. Celtic basketball was a team game and those who could not integrate with the team had to be dropped. Another part of Celtic history was loyalty to the players and workers. Obviously a very difficult situation when someone is " let go. " But that sentiment was there. I think the lakers under Jerry West had that same sentiment. To have that sentiment can tug at your heart, but it is part of the " old ways " and it is good.
Man, seeing this classic (and typical) playoff brawl between Boston and Detroit took me back to "the good ole days, but also made me thankful for the amazing advancements in the mass of on-screen data we take for granted in today's NBA broadcasts such as: the score, the game clock and shot clock being right there in full-view and in "always-on mode," plus the timeouts and fouls to give left for both teams, not to mention the plethora of stats available in real-time to the analysts going all the back throughout NBA history as long as they've kept a particular stat on teams and individual players. It really makes for a lot richer viewing experience here almost 40 years later. Oh, and did I mention the huge leap in picture quality, lol? (And "yes" I'm "old," since in '87 we were still forced to deal with those dreaded rabbit ears and tin foil once in awhile too!)
This game was on TNT which was a cable station. Cable television pictures were and are very good. This game wasn't watched with an antenna on top of your house or with rabbit ears.
In that hyper intense pressured situation, DJ's hoop IQ says all you need to know about him. Breaking towards the basket so quickly was athletic brilliance.
The Bird steal is great and deserves the legendary status. But any time I've ever seen the play (probably hundreds of times over the years), I've always been more impressed with Dennis Johnson's make of the lay-up. Under pressure and with very little time, sometimes the "easiest" things become the most difficult. One inch of a different amount of pressure on the ball, or on a different location on the backboard, and the lay-up clanks out. The cool, efficient catch of the pass and make of the lay-up is what always amazes me about this play.
DJ gets lost in the shuffle, and it's an absolute crime. He was a great player before he joined the Celtics.
I disagree, it was still a relatively uncontested lay-up. The steal was a great hustle play by a superstar after he missed a game winning shot.
Then Daly not calling a TO to set up the inbounds was a bad decision.
John havlichek steal 1960s nba basketball
Larry Bird has always said that the best player he ever played with was DJ.
48 minutes of playoff basketball and NOT ONE FLOP! Damn I miss the old days
❤️ 1980s nba basketball
Yea, also Defense effort. Traveling, double dribble, caring the ball called. Hard inside play and drives to the basket with bodies in lanes trying to stop. The NBA now is boring and stinks...
I dunno, Laimbeer flopped a little bit when Parish punched him in the face
@@untexan
😂😂😂😂
Yes because that fraud LeBron James wasn't in the league the competition then was real.
Look at Larry man, so inspirational.
The greatest ending in NBA history and Bird's play will live long after he's gone. I've heard Isiah's remembrance of Bird's steal and he was in awe of Bird. He said that Bird not only intercepted the ball but had the wherewithal to balance on his toes and not step out of bounds. He was doing this right after he stole the ball and spun around to see who to pass it to while he is falling back. Then throws a dart to DJ and the rest is history. A great play of anticipation, body control, mental awareness and athleticism. Though not the most athletic, Bird was the most gifted pure basketball player ever and there will never be another. He was born to play the game and a complete natural. The GOAT.
Bird was far more athletic than folks gave him credit for. He was second NBA defensive team for several years. Gotta have some athleticism to do that.
Larry Bird was the best basketball player in NBA history.
Not Jordan
Respectfully not the goat, not top 10
Great game. It’s so very fitting that Bird is most remembered for a hustle play. That guy played harder than almost anybody I’ve ever seen. I think he got two minutes rest in this whole game and still had enough energy left to make one of the most legendary plays in the league history. Heroes never die.
"Heroes are remembered but legends never die." The Great Bambino
@@Kingeptacon the more you look at the quote, the less meaning it has, like a Yogi Berra quote.
"Heroes are remembered". fine, "BUT legends never die" . ??? No difference. But what? That also means, simply that legends (the stories) are also not forgotten. Are remembered . Unless he meant the more vernacular use of "legend", referring to the hero, and not the story. But it doesn't matter. It makes no sense, either way, because, heroes do die. Not very deep. Also, wrong on all accounts. All heroes and legends are eventually forgotten. But I didn't get a good grade in baseball poetry so, what do i know?
At least you gave us the correct quote.
@@MarkTarmannPianoCheck_it_out I might be butchering this explanation but here goes.
I think he means that heroes are remembered in the short term. As in they’ll be remembered for a generation or two and then kind of fade out. Whereas legends will be passed down for generations to come because of how grandiose their career and/or life was.
For example, a firefighter that saves a little girl from a burning window is a hero. But after everybody that was involved dies off he’ll be forgotten because the story was only contained locally. But say, an iconic sports figure that touched millions of lives who had a much broader reach that had an exponentially greater impact on society will be remembered for far longer.
@@Kingeptacon don't give up your day job. Please tell me you're NOT a butcher🤣
because your analogy is spot on.
Robert Parish deserve a lot credit for being a warrior with a messed up ankle. Today's players always talking about easier schedules and they couldn't fathom playing through something like that.
Bird is without a doubt the greatest all around basketball player ever
@Sheha Nagaraj you totally forgot lebron James I'm not a fan of his but his basketball skills are undeniable
@Sheha Nagaraj personality has nothing to do with on court production and therefore it doesn't matter he is undeniably among the greatest in all around players
@Sheha Nagaraj your opinion is yours. But I like facts and the statistical facts in just about every way prove otherwise. Not to mention the facts of eye tests and accolades
Injuries late 1980s (Larry bird )
@@shehanagaraj1063 you are by far the biggest fricking re*ard on youtube talking about basketball jesus christ never talk ball again my goodness.
Bravo Dennis Johnson whose reaction time to Bird’s steal and consequent layup was simply OUTSTANDING!
Yeah man, he could have easily missed that layup. His actions were equally as impressive as Bird's steal, in my opinion. Perfect 1-2 punch.
Not just amazing that DJ made the shot but what was amazing was that he moving towards the basket BEFORE Larry had the ball!!
@@patriciamccormick9321 INSTINCT he just knew'
Those two were psychic. I've always loved Walton's sheer joy at the play. He shared the same kind of connection with Bird.
DJ could have stayed right where he was because he was wide open at that time, and if he had taken the shot, it would have been about a 10-footer. But, a layup is even better. Great awareness and reaction to the steal!
The most heartbreaking loss I can remember. I was 10 and watched this live. What a hell of a play by bird AND DJ.
FINALLY!!! A full game video of this legendary game on YT.
Thank you NBA!
Now this what you call Classic
people really underrate how loaded those bad boy pistons were talent wise, they only talk about them because of their physicality but they were a complete team loaded with talent. they had 4 legit scoring threats along with great defensive versatility. they almost made it to the finals 4 times in a row, made it 3 times and won back to back. they should be talked about as more than just a road block for michael jordan (i'm saying this as a die hard bulls fan) because they were really one of the greatest teams ever with one of the greatest players ever leading them in isiah thomas
Well said. This team had FOUR future Hall of Famers (Thomas, Dumars, Dantley, Rodman). They were just an anomaly in how they were built, but people act like they were the 2004 Pistons when in reality, they could (and did) play fast, they scored well over 100 points a game, and they were efficient offensively.
They were great but Isaiah and Lamebeer are two of the most idiotic players in league history and Rodman is an embarrassment to humanity. Their unlikeability factors in.
@@MaximusWolfe - I feel bad for u
@@danoneall4013 why? Truth hurts?
@@marykuettner752 - what truth was there?
Facts disagree and they don't care about your emotional feelings.
1:53:06 Steal by 🕊
50:05 Parish punches Laimbeer to the ground and nothing happens LOL
Thats legal in the 80s. Like rollerblade and ice hockey. Thats thd old NBA unlike todays cry baby NBA
full sender thank the refs😂
full sender and yet he got suspended, but I guess that’s legal in the 80’s.
Wow they was scared of Robert !!
#NoFoul
Larry Legend has done it again!
Danny Ainge, anyone?
ua-cam.com/video/FVS1WFESXRI/v-deo.html
LARRY LEGEND IS A UNICORN & THE TRUE GOAT 🐐
Bird got the steal, but watch closely: It was set up by McHale's awareness and DJ's confusion!
After the ball goes out of bounds, watch McHale. He quickly realizes (pause it at 1:53:05) that 3 unguarded Pistons are running toward the open basket. McHale is supposed to guard Laimbeer, but instead runs to the other end to protect the basket. As he's leaving (pause it at 1:53:06), McHale yells at DJ to cover Laimbeer.
But watch DJ: He doesn't hear McHale. Instead, DJ is looking around for Dumars, the man he's supposed to guard. This momentary confusion leaves Laimbeer wide open at the baseline.
Now watch Bird. He's looking at Isaiah and sees the throw will go to Laimbeer, (pause it at 1:53:07) so Bird races over to make the steal.
The throw-in catches DJ's attention, who turns around just in time to see Bird make the steal, so DJ instinctively streaks to the basket.
Bird ran at lamebeir to cover him because he was open and unguarded, ,Zeek didn't even see brid running at lamebeir lol. Zeek never inbounds which is funny he thought he could do it and choked
Your synopsis is wrong! It was very fluid when the ball was lost out of bounds and then with the attempted quick in-bounds by Isaiah. There was indeed some confusion, because guys were out of position and attempting to get back into position. Everybody figured a time out would be called as well but that didn't occur. So, two Pistons broke toward the other end after the ball was lost out of bounds. McHale actually made the mistake by following them and coming off Lambeer. This is what caused the confusion because it left D.J. to cover Lambeer which was a mismatch. That's why D.J. glances back, as he is looking for McHale who is nowhere near the play; so D.J.'s focus then goes back toward the ball. McHale was appealing to a line judge, he wasn't directing D.J. Bird initially covered Dumars but he broke toward the ball when he saw Isaiah passing to the open Lambeer. When Bird came off Dumars, D.J. started to move toward Dumars to cover. However, when D.J. saw Bird steal the ball he immediately broke toward the basket, as did Dumars. All of this occurred within a split second. Dumars was one of the best defenders and he actually got to the point quicker than D.J. but his block attempt failed when D.J. leaned under it and made the under hand layup. The rest is history. The game would have been over had Isaiah simply called time out or had he thrown the ball to the other end for the in-bounds pass. D.J. and Bird were simply fast thinkers and both of them reacted instantly to defend and then to steal the game away. Unbelievable play.
@rtd9153 Yeah whoever pistons coach was at the time made an awful mistake not calling a timeout 🤦♂️
Larry Legend is in my top 5 all day long
Injuries late 1980s ( Larry bird)
Even I have better hair than Larry
Even in a shooting slump Bird still makes the win. Pure class.
Shooting slump? Bird had 36 points in this game.
Not to mention his 12 rebounds and 9 assists.
The incredible game winning steal & assist to DJ is the icing on the cake and a history making type play.
That play at 39:45 ...so good! "That was a set play"! How come we don't see it nowadays?
I'll agree with u on a good play but u obviously don't hoop cuz anyone n this time & age knows we 2 smart quicker & skilled 4 that nursery rhyme play😄🤦🏽♂️
Cause it's risky af and very situational
The HOWARD Thats a trick play bro. It’s like a football switch where the wr throws it to the qb, has nothing to do with athleticism and speed, has everything to do with being at the right place at the right time
The HOWARD how much of an ego do you need to have for that lmao
It’s just an entry pass and if anything you see that less nowadays
Get a bucket however you can
fabian Heilbron Ha! Bra U crazy as hell if u think that with trying 2 compare B-Ball 2 a option type play🙄🤦🏽♂️ Last time I check in basketball everyone can handle the rock & in football yo center won't b doing 2 much extra but blocking & hiking the ball damn sure no Center option trick play
Believe it or not this game was when I became a TRUE PISTONS FAN!!!
This was the season, especially the 1987 playoffs when the Pistons began to use that 'bad boy' image with very physical style of play and intimidation. This series revealed it since both of these teams didn't like each other.
Nobody gives DJ credit for the BRILLIANT cut to the basket.
Doug Collins commentaring reminds me Jeff Van Gundy. I love it. By the way, great game, one of the best match ups in 80's, Larry, Dumars, Isiah and McHale really brought everything to the floor and gave us unforgetable playoffs games.
What’s really nice to see is how Bird didn’t really slow down after getting blocked. He was still hunting for whatever opportunity and that got him the steal.
One of the craziest endings to a ballgame in NBA playoff history
Yeah the best game in the NBA history. Honestly, I don't know why, I think the Celtics-Piston playoffs game are more exciting than the Magic-Kareem_Worthy Lakers vs Bird Celtics.
ua-cam.com/video/XG2gKxin-SQ/v-deo.html Funniest Jordan clip EVER
I've been emailing NBA for these games
ua-cam.com/video/FVS1WFESXRI/v-deo.html
What you mean ? It’s The craziest .
@@erichan6985gotta remember or if I’m too old please research "Havlicek stole the ball! It’s over!"
My opinion, Adrian Dantley was one of the greatest of all times. 1981-1984 in Utah he was unstoppable.
This was real basketball. Hard fouls, defense with no flopping. Great time
Cause offense aint so good back then. Compare plays back to now.
As a life long Boston Celtics fan, I will fully admit the better team did NOT win this game or series. The team that had the most heart and grit won the series. The 86-87 Celtics endured some extremely tough breaks. Bias dying, Wedman and Walton hurt all year long and then one major injury after another in the 87 playoffs and if not for Magic's hook plus some totally one sided officiating in Game 4 of the 1987 Finals, they would have pushed the best Lakers team ever to a Game 7 where anything could've happened. The 86 Celtics were the greatest team of all time but the 87 Celtics were the most courageous team of all time.
Bias would have brought much needed athleticism to that team.
ankle injuries never helped
It's heartbreaking to think about how great those late 80s and early 90s Celtics teams would have been, with Bias added to that lineup.
The Lakers manhandled the Celtics at the Forum. Be grateful it wasn't a sweep.
The 1976 Phoenix Suns
I miss Doug Collins and his insight on broadcast one of the best to ever do it.
Oh, absolutely. Especially when I hear Mark Jackson's "Mama, there goes that man" for 3035 time.
Man two tough cities represented here! Motown and Boston! Working Americans coming home to watch their teams. Great time
Yup. All while the Lakers were resting in the sun after going thru an inferior Western Conference. 82, 85, and 87 Lakers were lucky because they faced a much better team each year in the finals that had just finished a war with their opponent in the ECF.
39:45 omg
Riese 1979 I feel like even thought athleticism has increased IQ and skill has decreased over the years
@@itskjj_ nah
@@itskjj_ that's so true
Greatest play in NBA history right there by Bird.
Love the inside out game. So many open shots. Easy basketball. Some current teams could benefit from this
Larry Bird Greatest Celtic
NO, it's pAuL pIeRcE
John Havlicheck, Bob Cousy, Bill Russell
Bill Russell
@@nu._.n00 bird >>
What makes this even better is knowing Isaiah has sleepless nights to this day reliving that inbound pass. Priceless. To this day is still talked about as a great win for the Celtics and an epic fail by the leader of the Pistons. Its insane to think Bird has the presence of mind to NOT call a timeout. Idk how he processed all that so quickly.
He didn't lose that much sleep, still ended up beating boston and won 2 rings lol
@@pistolnowood2044 Detroit should have won in 1988 also. The Bias ref Calls “phantom foul” and crowd interrupting during Game 7
It was Pistons responsibility to call time out, not Bird. WTF are you talking about.
@@pistolnowood2044 Zeek is a butthurt little turd. He's still crying about MJ who owned him pick up games in Chicago when MJ was still in college and Zeek was the man. Zeek got shut down repeatedly and that started his hatred towards MJ that's never ended. Zeek still can't stop crying about MJ this or that. I'm glad he choked and gave bird the infamous steal.
Celtics had used their last time out after Isiah made what would be the Pistons final basket 1:50:38
Back when you had to remember the score.
I still wish they would show the scoreboard at all times
Score bug was a marked improvement though.
Controversial opinion: Larry Bird is one of the best to ever do it.
You can argue Bird is on the same level or slightly better than Lebron or other greats curently. Bird the type of player who would be the best player in this current NBA generation with his skill set. Can do it all.
I'm waiting for the controversy
That's not a particularly controversial opinion
Considering he not athletically talented compared to the other greats
?
This is actually super watchable, im taken aback. The ball movement is on point.
Absolutely incredible. I've seen the highlight of Bird's steal 100s of times be never realized how quick it was from the foul out of bounds. Maybe for some reason I assumed there was a time out before the inbound pass. This makes it even more incredible! Also never seen the whole game so, this was a treat! Thanks!
That's where Detroit messed up. They could have called a time out and then in-bounded. I watched the entire game live (Boston was my team) and this was one of the greatest sports plays ever. I was staying with my pregnant sister while her husband was out of town, and all I could do was jump up and down like crazy. I couldn't scream because she was sleeping. I'll never forget it.
The NBA should upload even more classic games.
Bill Walton's look of despair when the game looks lost to elation when Larry steals and assists to Dennis would totally be a meme
great upload..amazing Larry,more Bird games plz...
man oh man more Larry bird please
1:49:50 "You don't realize how difficult it is getting the ball in from the sideline" Doug Collins before 'The Steal"
Bird had that sixth sense you cannot teach
The Microwave was such an underrated player.
I wasn't even bprn then and i know the legend of Microwave Vinny
Im loving the camera angles in this game
Larry Legend underrated
Exactly
LOL! Bird underrated ? by who ? snot-nosed kids ? He's HOF and one of the greatest to ever play the game. Underrated. Fucks sake.
All I could hear in my head over the broadcast was Johnny Most “It’s a steal by Bird!!! Underneath to DJ he lays it in!!!” 🙌🏽👏🏀❤️🔥
One of those moments when you''ll always remember where you were when you saw the steal by Bird.
💯
As a kid that was an absolute DIE HARD, Converse weapon wearing, Showtime watching, Magic poster having Lakers fan, I HATED THE CELTICS. And I HATED LARRY BIRD. As a fan of the game who appreciate the history I was blessed to live through...Larry was a baaaaaaaaaaad man. It made those 85 and 87 titles sweeter because we had to beat a legitimate champion and great great player to win them.
I hated Magic and the Lakers and I know now how great Magic and Kareem were.
no flopping, barely any bad calls, no traveling/carrying, no super team, just pure basketball.
I mean they needed to add nba champion & finals mvp DJ
Celtics we’re essentially a super team lol
Boston has a legendary frontcourt (one of, if not THE best of all-time) and 4 members of the starting lineup are Hall of Famers. No superteam tho
39:45 that's a retro beauty indeed
Larry bird is the best player in the basketball history
Injuries late 1980s( Larry bird )
@@riccardom3858 well said.
Larry Bird also known as “Larry The Bird” to me!
*Larry Legend*
Isiah was trying to quickly inbound the ball and it backfired big time hahaha
I was on the phone with a friend when Bird stole the ball. The friend wasn’t a basketball fan at all, and I was casually watching the game. But in that moment I became a play-by-play announcer over the phone, because what transpired before me was truly shocking.
I was born in 91 but I herd alot about how legendary Larry Brid was so I wanted to see the hype, mannnnnn what a fucking dude 😂😂😂, he was different beast! Drop him in any Era he killing fools. How was he so damn great 😂😂. Skill, effort, IQ, confidence buddy had all 2k stats maxed out. That's a bad white man on the court😤🫱🏾🫲🏿🤙🏿🫡
50:10
Robert Parish is the man
I love when they freeze greg kite jumping lol bill Walton expressions are priceless and the always so that hillbilly guy with a beard great times
There is nothing controversial about this Larry Bird is one of the best ever
1:14:25 Ref might be the passionate guy in the place lol
LMAO
This moment perfectly illustrates why you don't celebrate like idiots until the clock shows 00:00 !!!
You see the younger Pistons , especially Rodman , celebrating like fools , a win that hasn't been decided yet . They didn't respect the brilliance and determination of Larry Legend and DJ . They both did not stop and hang their heads and mope like losers, as seasoned Champions they ACTED and made one of the most memorable events in sports history .
Robert Parish hit him with two right hands 😂😂😂 this era is so tough and entertaining
Unpopular opinion: Larry Bird the greatest Celtic of all time
waiting for the unpopular part
I would put Bill Russell over him, but maybe that's just me
Easy
Joshua Muench yeah it’s hard to pick between Bird and Russell, they’re both legendary
Let me set the record straight once and for all Larry Bird greatest small forward of all time without doubt its the intangible things that make a player great anyone who truly studies the game must agree
If your referring to Labron James As number 1 no disrespect but give me bird all day especially if the games on the line or a free throw needs to be made
That’s true but I also think Larry bird is seriously underrated on the defensive end
Perhaps the best court vision of all time always one step ahead and always disruptive
For sure no slight on labron because if he had one half the championships he has played in we would not even be having this conversation
Correction “won”
Larry Legend is insanely clutch
1:21:47 You’ll see Chuck Daly covering his mouth as talks. That’s because the Celts used to have lip readers in the stadium and would get the info to the Celts coaching staff. It wasn’t illegal in the NBA and several teams did it
Larry bird is on 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥
The first game they showed on a BBC highlights show in England .European Ball was boring .Different rules .This was like watching sport from another galaxy. Brilliant. And the most famous steal in NBA history .👍
As a Lakers fan, I always hated Boston and especially Larry Bird. They were so damn good, and they made life tough for the Lakers; as history shows they were a great rivalry and we all learned to respect each other. But this particular game, and how it finished, has got to still--even after the Championships Detroit won--hurt a Piston's fan like salt on an open wound. The greatest clutch steal/pass/make of all time IMO.
As a Lakers fan, I always hated Boston and especially Larry Bird. They were so damn good, and they made life tough for the Lakers; as history shows they were a great rivalry and we all learned to respect each other. But this particular game, and how it finished, has got to still--even after the Championships Detroit won--hurt a Piston's fan like salt on an open wound. The greatest clutch steal/pass/make of all time IMO.
You guys both make good points...
I was exactly the same
The timekeeper absolutely hosed the Pistons at the end. The ball hit out of bounds well before the buzzer, but that guy was going to get that last second off the clock by hook or crook.
Crazy to think what this '87 Celtic team couldve been if Walton could stay healthy and they had Bias. '86 squad is often in the "best team ever" discussion, but '87 wouldve ended any debate, in my opinion.
If Bird doesn't come up with that steal, the series is, in effect, over. Boston would otherwise have had to go back to Detroit down 3-2. Given their struggles on the road in these playoffs, and also the fact that they had been pounded twice in Detroit the previous weekend, the odds of them pulling off a Game 6 win were very long indeed.
That steal is some smart high iq shit. At the very end. That’s a winner right there.
Parish knocked Laimbeer to the parcade floor...I love that...That was incredible and the whole crowd erupted 👍👍
Never celebrate until the clock reads 00:00. Rodman raised his hands like the game was over but he forgot that there was a hillbilly with 33 on his jersey that was always 3 moves ahead of everyone else out there, fighting the good fight.
Saludos desde Veracruz ☺👋👋👋👍👍🏀🏀🏀
More LARRY BIRD games please! 🙏🙏🙏🙏
The Wonders of Larry Bird.
One of the best times in basketball frfr and that's no cap!!!
Bird has this game in the bag already.
Finally! Thank you for this clear video NBA!
larry birds defense is so underrated
Llevo 35 años llorando ese pase de Isahias Thomas 🥺😭. 🤔 pero al mismo tiempo todavía veo a Bill Lambier tan solo para resivir ese pase que todavía no entiendo cómo pudo haber pasado aunque vea la repetición 1,000 veces🤔🤷🤦🙄
"And there's a steal by Bird! Underneath to DJ HE LAYS IT IN!!!!!! RIGHT AT 1 SECOND REMAINING...WHAT A PLAY BY BIRD!!!!!!!!!!!!!"
Lakers vs Nuggets - Game 4 - 2008
Suns vs Spurs - Game 4 - 2005
Suns vs Mavericks - Game 6 - 2005
76ers vs Bucks - Game 6 - 2001
Hornets vs Magic - Game 3 - 2002
Cavaliers vs Hawks - Game 3 - 2009
Nuggets vs Mavericks - Game 4 - 2009
Spurs vs Hornets - Game 5 - 2008
Wizards vs Bulls - Game 5 - 2005
Celtics vs Heat - Game 4 - 2010
Bucks vs Magic - Game 3 - 2001
Thanks
Interesting you requested Celtics Heat 2010 game 4. I was at this game. Celtics were ready to sweep Heat until D Wade decided to become god.
Thanks for posting!!
Great upload ,legends everywhere
Larry the best ever. No doubt.
You’re on crack. No doubt.
A matter of facts. Are you a Knicks fan? Great team but Bird and his Celtics were better, no doubt too. 😉
Lol yes they were a great team, but Larry ain’t the best, what crack are you on??!!
You are obsessed with crack. Lol. What's your fav player?. I love basketball and I think the eighties were the best era.
Dude any NBA player right now would be considered witchcraft in this era
NBA players today would be called for travel every time they touched the ball back than.
Miss you DJ , rest in peace .
sure, DJ and Parish were there day after day, night after night. They are talked about less, but both hall-of-famers who played like great Celtics. Aurebach was the soul of the Celtics and his vision was the vision that became Celtic basketball. Celtic basketball was a team game and those who could not integrate with the team had to be dropped. Another part of Celtic history was loyalty to the players and workers. Obviously a very difficult situation when someone is " let go. " But that sentiment was there. I think the lakers under Jerry West had that same sentiment. To have that sentiment can tug at your heart, but it is part of the " old ways " and it is good.
McHale had some nasty post moves on the block lol
"And there's a steal by Bird! Underneath to DJ HE LAYS IT IN!!!!!! RIGHT AT 1 SECOND REMAINING...WHAT A PLAY BY BIRD!!!"
Those were the days !!
Putting any team today against either of these 2 teams. Nba then was sooo bad. Def has evolved.
50:12 That's not even a faul...crazy
Man, seeing this classic (and typical) playoff brawl between Boston and Detroit took me back to "the good ole days, but also made me thankful for the amazing advancements in the mass of on-screen data we take for granted in today's NBA broadcasts such as: the score, the game clock and shot clock being right there in full-view and in "always-on mode," plus the timeouts and fouls to give left for both teams, not to mention the plethora of stats available in real-time to the analysts going all the back throughout NBA history as long as they've kept a particular stat on teams and individual players. It really makes for a lot richer viewing experience here almost 40 years later. Oh, and did I mention the huge leap in picture quality, lol? (And "yes" I'm "old," since in '87 we were still forced to deal with those dreaded rabbit ears and tin foil once in awhile too!)
This game was on TNT which was a cable station. Cable television pictures were and are very good. This game wasn't watched with an antenna on top of your house or with rabbit ears.
@@dmichael100I agree, except it was TBS.