In 1974 Larry Bird was my P.E assistant when I was in the 8th grade and he was a senior at Springs Valley High School. At the beginning of each P.E. class we always ran 10 warmup laps around the gym. One day, a trampoline was set up on the basketball court and there was Larry Bird bouncing on it. As the whistle blew and we reluctantly lined up to run our laps, our teacher (who was also Larry's basketball coach) blew his whistle, and said "Larry is going to take 10 shots while jumping on the trampoline. If Larry makes any shots, each one made will delete a lap that you must run." Coach threw the ball to Larry and right there in front of me and the entire boys Jr. High P.E. class, Larry proceeded to hit 7 out of 10 shots while bouncing up and down on the trampoline, 40 feet away from the goal. Larry set an incredible example for me as a young boy in French Lick, Indiana that helped me through my entire adult career. If you are willing to work very hard and never give up, your dreams can and will come true. Thank you Larry.
Dennis Johnson was not only a great player, but he was also a wonderful character, in a world where sometimes people are a bit stale. Rest In Peace Dennis. You are missed.
DJ and Bird actually practiced that pass in case it was ever needed. I don't know if they ever used it more than that one time,but it shocked everyone in the NBA that someone actually had the presence of mind to do it. Absolutely brilliant!
@@richardpare3538 I saw it at least one other time. Coach Collins (the commentator) did too, because he recognizes it immediately. When this broadcast took place, Collins had just finished coaching the Chicago Bulls, including being their coach in the game where Jordan lit the Celts up for 63 in the playoffs, so Collins had had to study Bird, DJ, and the rest of the Celtics several times per year. Unfortunately, much of the footage Collins studied is probably lost to history, as is also true with so much of the other TV footage from that era. 😢
Watched those two guys play, and when either one got the ball and locked eyes, it was goodbye basket, never saw such chemistry between two such men. They made basketball in the 80's something else that you will not see in today's game. It was mesmerizing to watch DJ and Larry work the floor. RIP DJ, you earned a great rest. Gonna miss ya'.
I used to love watching the Boston Celtics play in order to see the talents of Larry Bird. In the process I discovered the many talents of Dennis Johnson. To me DJ ranked among the top ten guards who ever played NBA basketball. Both he and Bird assisted each other in attaining greatness. I honor DJ not only for his basketball proficiency but also for his humanity. May his spirit join those residing in God’s Heavenly Paradise.
It REALLY saddens me that Dennis Johnson could not be there for his enshrinement into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame!!! Rest in peace DJ!
Charles Barkley was so mad that DJ died before he got into the HOF. That's why DJ's brother gave Chuck a lot of props in the HOF speech. It was Chuck who was calling for DJ's enshrinement.
Was ridiculous he should've been a first ballot HOFer imo DJ carried the Sonics to a title his 3rd year in the league at the age of 24 years old in 78-79 was the Finaks MVP putting up 22.6 ppg, 6 rpg, 6 apg, 1.8 spg and 2.2 bpg! That title was after a season in which the Sonics went to the finals and lost in game 7 to the same team smh and if it wasnt for a rookie 20 year old Magic Johnson that Sonics team wouldve went to 3 straight finals. Overall through his career he went to 6 nba Finals which is pretty amazing! Not to mention his 9 all defensive teams which is 7th most all time smh don't know how such a great player never got the recognition that he deserved. Sadly the reason he never got the recognition was cause he was a quite soft spoken guy who just went out and did everything he could do to help his team win!
The DJ-to-Bird pass was so danged effective, and done so often, that you would have thought that the other teams would have been more conscientious about never turning their back on DJ when trying ( emphasis on "trying") to guard Bird.
DJ played scorer in Seattle, franchise player in Phoenix, and then playmaker in Boston. He came into the NBA as an underdog and left as a HOFer. The guy somehow knew what to do with what he had. It was a joy to watch him play with Bird. Magic Johnson made beautiful passes, but DJ made simple ones that counted.
I have been saying this for years, but no one seems to listen. My favorite player of all time. BTW every bit a clutch player as Larry, especially in playoffs.
Johnson could put velocity on the ball with pin point accuracy.... the guy was amazing! Bird... I think he had the best hands I've ever seen too. Johnson must have been so happy when Bird came along.... finally someone that could handle his passing.
Dennis Johnson was an amazing all around player. One of my favorites of all time along with Russell, Bird. Great team players that made watching the game fun. Today’s NBA is a bore.
it was a combo of Dj throwing to a spot and bird not letting defender knowing where the pass gonna go until the last possible moment. Most players eyes get bigger when the ball is headed their way. Takes two people to make that play work!!
Never liked Boston (because they beat my Lakers so many times until Showtime), but always appreciated freckle face DJ. He was so cool under pressure, and made so many clutch plays. Shocked when him and Pistol Pete passed away. Both had strong faith so I hope to meet them in Christ's eternal Kingdom.
Thanks for the info regarding DJ's faith. I did not know that. Having faith in Christ as our only Saviour is the most important thing about a person. All the rest is just a tale that is told. I sure wish someone would explain it all in a common sense way to Larry Bird. Such a great player. Would be a shame for all that talent to go to such waste.
@@libertypastor1307 You started off well, then ended up showing your true colors about how you feel about those without 100% faith. That in itself is sad.
@@OoogaBoog Yep, my true colors is that I love people so much that I want them to really know the Lord as their Saviour, not just know about him. I love Larry Bird and want him to really know the Lord as his Saviour, too. I have not heard or read anything that gives me a strong indication, based on what the Bible says, that gives me the confidence I wish I had for him. It doesn't take much faith, but however small one's faith is, it must be 100% in Jesus Christ as the ONLY One who can save you from hell, because you understand He was God manifest in flesh to pay for our sins; and that He Rose from the dead, proving that He can raise us and take us to heaven when we die. That's all.
In the finals series against the Lakers, DJ was moved to guard Magic and it turned out to be a key move, which helped shut down Magic and it got the Celtics back into the series. DJ was an underrated defensive player and was such a threat on offense. Besides passing, he would drive down the middle, or pull up with a mid range jumper that was simply money.
I remember these plays. Parish and Bird used to run another great play where Parish would appear as if he was setting a baseline pick for Bird and then instantly cut back towards the basket. Bird would lob it over the defenders and Parish would have an easy dunk, or if McHale's defender came to help, he would touch pass it to McHale. It looked effortless. Of course we tried to copy it for our summer pickup games. That Celts team was incredible.
DJ had a one of a kind career. Started off as a multiple all star, finals mvp shooting guard averaging about twenty ppg . Then in the latter part of his career he unselfishly transforms his game to become a starting pg on a couple of championship teams where he plays the background to the most dominate frontcourt in NBA history. Was also one of the best defensive guards throughout his career.
I am unsure which is more amazing, the accuracy and speed of DJ's passes or Bird's amazing feathery hands and his lightning release of those layups. What an unstoppable move!
After awhile it wasn't much of a secret as the announcers mentioned, they would do it 2 or 3 times a game. They called it The Backdoor Play. DJ made lightning fast passes. Sometimes passed with one hand right off the dribble so it wasn't telegraphed.
DJ is one of most underrated plyrs to vever play,period!..Not many plyrs were on his level as far as efficient and effective WINNERS..and ,to this day, he is one of the best defensive PGs ever..The ones that know,KNOW
C of Cali WOW! I’m from San Pedro and I used to watch Dennis play when he was growing up. I consider him my ex-brother-in-law since my sister and his brother were hooked up.
Grew up in Massachusetts during the ‘80s. Loved the Celtics and DJ was my favorite. Such a cool, controlled player, he is what made the Celtics go. So sad when he passed. He was the best!
DJ was the man and there was no doubt about his greatness, he won the Finals MVP in 1979 when the Seattle SuperSonics beat the Washington Bullets 4 games to 1. In the playoffs he was averaging 20 points, 6 rebounds, 4 assists, and almost 2 blocks per game. Not too bad for a guy listed at 6’ 4”.
They were both clutch performers. Never let the stage get to them. Indeed, DJ upped his game a lot in the playoffs. Veteran. He knew how to pace himself.
Bird was in constant motion so the defender had to keep his eyes on Larry which meant he wasn't looking to block that bullet pass from DJ. And Bird had such great hands that he could lay it up right or left hand, or right hand on the left side or however else he felt like it!!
People might not know that Dennis Johnson was a Core player for the Seattle Super Sonics that played in the NBA finals two years in a row and won the Title in 1979. It's no surprise that Larry Legend enjoyed playing with DJ.
Great stuff! That play was very impactful for those Celtics; Bird would cut through screens and if the defender was caught sleeping or thought that Larry was gonna pop-out on the other side for the jumper, Dennis would just throw that bullet pass for Bird in the paint... So simple and yet so amazing and important. That one off the backboard is unreal. Those two had great chemistry between them, on the court. DJ developed into a very smart, really good PG/passer in his later years, after losing some athleticism, after getting heavier... RIP.
You are absolutely right. Many or most players can't do that (adjust as they get older). DJ did and really didn't lose effectiveness. Just changed his style and strengths a bit. Jordan did too. Probably Wilt and Rick Barry as well. Not a whole lot of others.
Damn! Stunning timing and accuracy at any distance no matter how many defenders. I'm sold. Shame to hear he did not witness his Basketball Hall of Fame induction.
WHAT A PLAYER! I have watched these replays countless times and the teamwork between all the players was without a doubt the best of the best. L.A., the Hawks, etc. were ultimate warriors. I don't think there will ever be all the talent within the 80's, that other eras have seen. Maybe some here and there before and afterwards, but the heart of most of these warriors were without question, epic.
Awesome compilation. DJ to Larry was something special. “Underneath to DJ”was the coup de gras of an historic Celtics run & Game 6 in Atlanta was an extremely special night, especially for me as a fan of the C’s. RIP DJ
Every time they refer to the '80s Celtics 'Big Three' I wince. DJ was, like, the _hub_ of that team: if he was involved in the play, the ball would go exactly where it needed to go. 70% of the time it needed to go to Bird, but if it needed to go to someone else, he'd get it to them - or into the basket, himself.
I don't recall having seen the play at 2:44 but I'm definitely not surprised, considering the awareness and quickness of them both. Also, Bird shot to the backboard himself at least one time. Genius of Bird.
Please correct me if I am mistaken but early in his career Dennis Johnson was not a play-maker and passer, more of an open-court dribbler and scorer. It’s to his immense credit that he developed his passing and incredible court-sense over the course of his career, eventually becoming one of the dominant point guards in the game.
It's 2021 and I'm still commenting on what a beautiful team this was to watch. I hated them at the time, because I'm a Hawks fan, but looking back at it, damn! What a team. If Bird and McHale hadn't been injured they'd have at least one more trophy. Probably more.
I loved watching Dennis Johnson play. That playoff game with Detroit when Bird fed DJ the ball down the lane for the win might have been the most exciting play I ever saw. DJ was awesome RIP big guy.
Bird told the story of when his friend and fellow Celtic, Rick Robey, disappointingly came to tell Bird that the Celtics had just traded him. Bird asked him whom he got traded for. Robey told him, Dennis Johnson. Bird replied, "Let me help you pack your things."
Stood in line at the grocery store with D.J. Did the double take. 15 seconds of asking myself is that him, should I talk to him.? Got to talk to him about one minute. So many questions wanted to ask. i was sort of in awe. Just remember he was real nice, for the most part humble. Not long after that they announced he died.
It's funny how a guy will say someone was the best they played with or against and it's often times not who you'd expect. Payton said Stockton was the toughest opponent he ever faced. You'd think MJ or someone else even. You'd think Bird's best teammate was McHale, but it was DJ. They are in the trenches with these guys and so they know firsthand. DJ doesn't get the love but he was a great PG no doubt.
Simon I have no doubt about that. King was just unfortunate but it's not like Bird was just made his bitch. They met head to head in 84 playoffs. Both in their primes and both not yet injured. Bird bested Bernard. Bernard was a beast tho and was one of the most determined players ever. Had he been healthy in 85-90, I'm sure they'd got a ring or 2 or at least a Finals appearance.
CLewey44 Idk about King getting a title, at least not in NY. I mean he was great but the Knicks were not that good. Maybe King and Ewing would have been a winning duo, but I doubt that a very young Ewing could have taken those Knicks over the Celtics or the Pistons. Maybe I need to watch more games of Bernard King. Oh and concerning DJ, I really think he was a better player than McHale, he was crazy good.
Simon I think McHale scored very well and good at defending but DJ was one of those guys that never made mistakes and was just a great teammate to have. He was never really on a bad team. He hit key shots, made the right play and was a great lieutenant for Bird. Really a co-captain. I've seen LB chew some of his teammates, to include McHale but never saw him light up DJ. Never really had a reason to.
One thing they forgot to add in the clips which I think is the best of them all was this 1987 playoffs clutch play and the commentary went a little something like this: "Now there's a steal by Bird! Underneath to DJ who lays it in!". You see, one half of that iconic play was obviously Larry Bird stealing the ball but the other half was DJ having a split-second reaction to Larry Bird. If DJ was a fraction slower then the defense recovers and he doesn't get an open layup or worse Larry Bird turns it back over because he was teetering on the edge of the baseline. That's the thing about these two. They seem to be two parts of the same player.
After DJ scores he hustles over to guard any inbound pass. Ain't over til whistle blows. Crowd going nuts but he KNEW. MOST UNDER RATED GUY of all time. AND CLUTCH. I'll take him and Bird to start ANY team. ANY ERA.
I actually thought this channel was made by Bill Simmons when I first found it, that's how great the quality of the videos are. Great finds for footage, great editing, great music! Love your work!
We miss you dj ❤,bird said it all you were the best he played with #03 #33 glad yall side by side in the rafters ❤❤ you should have gotten your flowers dj 🎉❤
first off, jazzy elevator piano version of an MGMT song is so choice. second, when DJ threw it at the backboard... so genius. right when it left his hands Bird was already on his page and looking for it. awesome to watch.
Amazing. Some of these passes were Magic Johnson-esque. And others, notably those off the dribble, were Stockton-esque. Beautiful chemistry between these two hoops legends.
Dennis Johnson is one of the greatest point guards of all-time. Not only did he make Larry better, he was a finals MVP in Seattle when that Sonics team won the chip. DJ is also one of the greatest defenders at the PG position of all-time. The 3 time champ was money.
Just goes to show how effective team play can be. I’m not saying that it doesn’t happen at all today, but so many times the ball is fed to the ‘star’ of the team and if he doesn’t make the shot, they turn and head to the other end of the court. Many times not in there for the rebounds or fighting for the ball. Just doesn’t seem to be that level of commitment and team play that I was so fortunate to enjoy between the late 60s and the 90s.
I enjoyed watching DJ play. I first watched him play in Seattle under Coach Lenny Wilkins. DJ could do it all. He could score, defend, rebound and was always under control with the basketball. RIP DJ.
I always remember going down to Boston to see the 1986 Celtics victory parade. Larry Bird was standing in the truck with both arms in the air and his girlfriend (later wife) at his side. Parish was there, and I touched Kevin McHale's hand. I don't recall seeing Bill Walton or DJ because I don't think parades were their thing, but they were sure great players on the court. Ainge was talking to someone in a truck.
Sad that Dennis Johnson is no longer here, he would have enjoyed the many stories together with old teammates. Great player, and made the whole Celtics team great and greater
How about the 'secret defensive play' against the Detroit Pistons? Bird steals the ball, passes to DJ, DJ scores. Arguably the greatest defensive play ever.
DJ was a better passer than anyone in the NBA,NFL or NHL since Bill Russell, Bart Starr or Bobby Orr era. Outstanding BB smarts and he did make LB a better player.
Oh my God. I am huge Larry Bird fan and I never realized that play was so good and DJ was so good. Thanks for posting this . I learned something new today. Those were my glory days of watching the NBA
NOBODY did it better than this. There are and have been great passers. John Stockton was a god. But this chemistry was unbelievable. Just unbelievable.
Bird has to wait until the last second before he moves his hands up to catch the pass... he HAS TO make it look like he is just *passing through* the lane.... If you watch closely . DJ's passes are ALWAYS in the exact spot it has to be... it can not be off any more than 6" to 8" to work .. simply incredible ..!!! ((Many of those passes whizz right by the defenders body or head by inches... 👍👍👍 AND if Bitd raises his hands to quickly, or changes body position to early, it won't work.. Reminds me a bit of a fade rout in football...
DJ is one of the most underrated players ever. It's not as pretty as lebron, but I'd pick larry to win 7 out 10 games if both of them were given equal teams...
One thing about lebron, is he gets tons of hate in todays basketball for being a baby and flopping and blah blah blah, but one thing people don't understand is lebron goes out and plays fast and hard in todays much slower pace of basketball. His explosiveness proved himself in the 2000s when basketball was still played at a faster pace. But he's had to adapt to todays rules. He definitely would have fit in on the bad boy pistons in 86
In 1974 Larry Bird was my P.E assistant when I was in the 8th grade and he was a senior at Springs Valley High School. At the beginning of each P.E. class we always ran 10 warmup laps around the gym. One day, a trampoline was set up on the basketball court and there was Larry Bird bouncing on it. As the whistle blew and we reluctantly lined up to run our laps, our teacher (who was also Larry's basketball coach) blew his whistle, and said "Larry is going to take 10 shots while jumping on the trampoline. If Larry makes any shots, each one made will delete a lap that you must run." Coach threw the ball to Larry and right there in front of me and the entire boys Jr. High P.E. class, Larry proceeded to hit 7 out of 10 shots while bouncing up and down on the trampoline, 40 feet away from the goal. Larry set an incredible example for me as a young boy in French Lick, Indiana that helped me through my entire adult career. If you are willing to work very hard and never give up, your dreams can and will come true. Thank you Larry.
Great story
@Skip Ads The P.E. Teacher.
Got goosebumps from your post. Ever tell your story to larger audience through media? Should be out there
@@YG-do3dg Thank you Y G. No I don't believe I have. It would be fun to share with ESPN or any sports network that appreciates Larry Bird.
@@hakan3773 Thank you Hakan.
Dennis Johnson was not only a great player, but he was also a wonderful character, in a world where sometimes people are a bit stale. Rest In Peace Dennis. You are missed.
That last pass, bouncing ball of the board for Bird to rebound, was the work of a genius.
RIGHT ? Shazaam !!! That is the two of them SCHOOLING EVERYBODY.
I literally yelled out loud when I saw that play! Genius teamwork, those guys! RIP DJ
That was a hellva alitte play they had, Dj always new where bird was.
DJ and Bird actually practiced that pass in case it was ever needed. I don't know if they ever used it more than that one time,but it shocked everyone in the NBA that someone actually had the presence of mind to do it. Absolutely brilliant!
@@richardpare3538 I saw it at least one other time. Coach Collins (the commentator) did too, because he recognizes it immediately.
When this broadcast took place, Collins had just finished coaching the Chicago Bulls, including being their coach in the game where Jordan lit the Celts up for 63 in the playoffs, so Collins had had to study Bird, DJ, and the rest of the Celtics several times per year.
Unfortunately, much of the footage Collins studied is probably lost to history, as is also true with so much of the other TV footage from that era. 😢
Watched those two guys play, and when either one got the ball and locked eyes, it was goodbye basket, never saw such chemistry between two such men. They made basketball in the 80's something else that you will not see in today's game. It was mesmerizing to watch DJ and Larry work the floor. RIP DJ, you earned a great rest. Gonna miss ya'.
Great comment Fred. Thx
I used to love watching the Boston Celtics play in order to see the talents of Larry Bird. In the process I discovered the many talents of Dennis Johnson. To me DJ ranked among the top ten guards who ever played NBA basketball. Both he and Bird assisted each other in attaining greatness. I honor DJ not only for his basketball proficiency but also for his humanity. May his spirit join those residing in God’s Heavenly Paradise.
Best backdoor lay up in the history of the NBA!!! RIP D.J.
there is great beauty in seeing two professional technicians at the height of their game communicating so seamlessly without a word.
It REALLY saddens me that Dennis Johnson could not be there for his enshrinement into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame!!! Rest in peace DJ!
Me too, John. He should have been in looooonnnng ago.
Charles Barkley was so mad that DJ died before he got into the HOF. That's why DJ's brother gave Chuck a lot of props in the HOF speech. It was Chuck who was calling for DJ's enshrinement.
Was ridiculous he should've been a first ballot HOFer imo DJ carried the Sonics to a title his 3rd year in the league at the age of 24 years old in 78-79 was the Finaks MVP putting up 22.6 ppg, 6 rpg, 6 apg, 1.8 spg and 2.2 bpg! That title was after a season in which the Sonics went to the finals and lost in game 7 to the same team smh and if it wasnt for a rookie 20 year old Magic Johnson that Sonics team wouldve went to 3 straight finals. Overall through his career he went to 6 nba Finals which is pretty amazing! Not to mention his 9 all defensive teams which is 7th most all time smh don't know how such a great player never got the recognition that he deserved. Sadly the reason he never got the recognition was cause he was a quite soft spoken guy who just went out and did everything he could do to help his team win!
A sin, a terrible sin.
Man, that pass off the backboard was a thing of beauty. WOW
Rest in Peace DJ. Celtics fans will always love you.
Dennis Johnson was a underrated player and he fited in perfectly with the celtics .
The DJ-to-Bird pass was so danged effective, and done so often, that you would have thought that the other teams would have been more conscientious about never turning their back on DJ when trying ( emphasis on "trying") to guard Bird.
D.J.'s speed and accuracy throwing the ball.... and Bird's extremely good hands made those plays work.
Growin up, i always admire DJ's intelligence and skills. A perfect pointguard for Bird and Mchale. Rest in peace DJ.
Glorious video. DJ was criminally underrated. Fantastic talent and amazing basketball IQ. The perfect point guard. So glad he made the HoF.
He looks like he could have play QB in the NFL. I guess you could say the same for Bird too.
He sure was, hell of a play maker.
DJ played scorer in Seattle, franchise player in Phoenix, and then playmaker in Boston. He came into the NBA as an underdog and left as a HOFer. The guy somehow knew what to do with what he had. It was a joy to watch him play with Bird. Magic Johnson made beautiful passes, but DJ made simple ones that counted.
I have been saying this for years, but no one seems to listen. My favorite player of all time. BTW every bit a clutch player as Larry, especially in playoffs.
@@reggietheist agree tell you something I had a cat named it DJ that was not a joke or a small thing it was a tribute -- cat died the same day DJ did
Johnson could put velocity on the ball with pin point accuracy.... the guy was amazing! Bird... I think he had the best hands I've ever seen too. Johnson must have been so happy when Bird came along.... finally someone that could handle his passing.
Great tribute to DJ. What a fantastic player! He made every team better.
He did. On both sides of the ball, in every way.
Dennis Johnson was an amazing all around player. One of my favorites of all time along with Russell, Bird. Great team players that made watching the game fun. Today’s NBA is a bore.
Today's game has zero relevance to what they did then, and is boring as all hell.
watched him shine in the finals as a Sonic and as a Celtic, he was a flat out winner, both ends, played the game the right way, a killer
it was a combo of Dj throwing to a spot and bird not letting defender knowing where the pass gonna go until the last possible moment. Most players eyes get bigger when the ball is headed their way. Takes two people to make that play work!!
Such humble, level headed players. True role models.
Never liked Boston (because they beat my Lakers so many times until Showtime), but always appreciated freckle face DJ. He was so cool under pressure, and made so many clutch plays. Shocked when him and Pistol Pete passed away. Both had strong faith so I hope to meet them in Christ's eternal Kingdom.
Thanks for the info regarding DJ's faith. I did not know that. Having faith in Christ as our only Saviour is the most important thing about a person. All the rest is just a tale that is told. I sure wish someone would explain it all in a common sense way to Larry Bird. Such a great player. Would be a shame for all that talent to go to such waste.
@@libertypastor1307 You started off well, then ended up showing your true colors about how you feel about those without 100% faith. That in itself is sad.
@@OoogaBoog Yep, my true colors is that I love people so much that I want them to really know the Lord as their Saviour, not just know about him. I love Larry Bird and want him to really know the Lord as his Saviour, too. I have not heard or read anything that gives me a strong indication, based on what the Bible says, that gives me the confidence I wish I had for him.
It doesn't take much faith, but however small one's faith is, it must be 100% in Jesus Christ as the ONLY One who can save you from hell, because you understand He was God manifest in flesh to pay for our sins; and that He Rose from the dead, proving that He can raise us and take us to heaven when we die.
That's all.
@@libertypastor1307 True. As the Bible says "what does it profit a man to gain the world, but to lose his soul?"
@@Amick44 I'm sure Larry Bird will do just fine.
In the finals series against the Lakers, DJ was moved to guard Magic and it turned out to be a key move, which helped shut down Magic and it got the Celtics back into the series. DJ was an underrated defensive player and was such a threat on offense. Besides passing, he would drive down the middle, or pull up with a mid range jumper that was simply money.
Larry & DJ were a thing of beauty to watch, beautiful.
I remember these plays. Parish and Bird used to run another great play where Parish would appear as if he was setting a baseline pick for Bird and then instantly cut back towards the basket. Bird would lob it over the defenders and Parish would have an easy dunk, or if McHale's defender came to help, he would touch pass it to McHale. It looked effortless. Of course we tried to copy it for our summer pickup games.
That Celts team was incredible.
DJ had a one of a kind career. Started off as a multiple all star, finals mvp shooting guard averaging about twenty ppg . Then in the latter part of his career he unselfishly transforms his game to become a starting pg on a couple of championship teams where he plays the background to the most dominate frontcourt in NBA history. Was also one of the best defensive guards throughout his career.
Dennis came to the Celts in 84. Celts go to the finals the next four years and Bird wins three MVP's in a row.
I am unsure which is more amazing, the accuracy and speed of DJ's passes or Bird's amazing feathery hands and his lightning release of those layups. What an unstoppable move!
philagon spot on
Bird could easily have been a pitcher OR a quarterback his arm was FasT and ACCURATE' Larry Legend GOAT .
After awhile it wasn't much of a secret as the announcers mentioned, they would do it 2 or 3 times a game. They called it The Backdoor Play. DJ made lightning fast passes. Sometimes passed with one hand right off the dribble so it wasn't telegraphed.
Couldn't telegraph it anyway cos he only threw it when the defender had his back turned. Absolute genius
DJ is one of most underrated plyrs to vever play,period!..Not many plyrs were on his level as far as efficient and effective WINNERS..and ,to this day, he is one of the best defensive PGs ever..The ones that know,KNOW
Loved DJ in Seattle and Boston. Very underrated overlooked , great player. God rest your soul Dennis johnson.
Happy Birthday to Mr.Johnson.9-18-54.San Pedro,CA.Celtics 4 life
C of Cali WOW! I’m from San Pedro and I used to watch Dennis play when he was growing up. I consider him my ex-brother-in-law since my sister and his brother were hooked up.
Grew up in Massachusetts during the ‘80s. Loved the Celtics and DJ was my favorite. Such a cool, controlled player, he is what made the Celtics go. So sad when he passed. He was the best!
DJ was the man and there was no doubt about his greatness, he won the Finals MVP in 1979 when the Seattle SuperSonics beat the Washington Bullets 4 games to 1. In the playoffs he was averaging 20 points, 6 rebounds, 4 assists, and almost 2 blocks per game. Not too bad for a guy listed at 6’ 4”.
They were both clutch performers. Never let the stage get to them.
Indeed, DJ upped his game a lot in the playoffs.
Veteran. He knew how to pace himself.
Bird was in constant motion so the defender had to keep his eyes on Larry which meant he wasn't looking to block that bullet pass from DJ. And Bird had such great hands that he could lay it up right or left hand, or right hand on the left side or however else he felt like it!!
People might not know that Dennis Johnson was a Core player for the Seattle Super Sonics that played in the NBA finals two years in a row and won the Title in 1979. It's no surprise that Larry Legend enjoyed playing with DJ.
I like this guy! RIP Dennis Johnson. When I think of Bird, your name will always come next to him. You were great together.
Great stuff! That play was very impactful for those Celtics; Bird would cut through screens and if the defender was caught sleeping or thought that Larry was gonna pop-out on the other side for the jumper, Dennis would just throw that bullet pass for Bird in the paint... So simple and yet so amazing and important. That one off the backboard is unreal.
Those two had great chemistry between them, on the court. DJ developed into a very smart, really good PG/passer in his later years, after losing some athleticism, after getting heavier... RIP.
You are absolutely right. Many or most players can't do that (adjust as they get older). DJ did and really didn't lose effectiveness. Just changed his style and strengths a bit. Jordan did too. Probably Wilt and Rick Barry as well. Not a whole lot of others.
Mick A Agreed. DJ adjusted his game and still played at a high level. He was so clutch!
Damn! Stunning timing and accuracy at any distance no matter how many defenders. I'm sold. Shame to hear he did not witness his Basketball Hall of Fame induction.
Damn, DJ could rifle that that ball right to Bird. Loved growing up watching him.
Dennis Johnson won an NBA championship with the Seattle SuperSonics, and was the finals MVP before he ever played for the Celtics.
Great video. Bird's steal to DJ'S layup against the Pistons in Game 5 of the ECF on 5/26/1987 needs mentioning.
WHAT A PLAYER! I have watched these replays countless times and the teamwork between all the players was without a doubt the best of the best. L.A., the Hawks, etc. were ultimate warriors. I don't think there will ever be all the talent within the 80's, that other eras have seen. Maybe some here and there before and afterwards, but the heart of most of these warriors were without question, epic.
Awesome compilation. DJ to Larry was something special. “Underneath to DJ”was the coup de gras of an historic Celtics run & Game 6 in Atlanta was an extremely special night, especially for me as a fan of the C’s. RIP DJ
So many of these videos show Bird making Parish or McHale look good...nice to see how DJ made Bird look good...nice
Every time they refer to the '80s Celtics 'Big Three' I wince. DJ was, like, the _hub_ of that team: if he was involved in the play, the ball would go exactly where it needed to go. 70% of the time it needed to go to Bird, but if it needed to go to someone else, he'd get it to them - or into the basket, himself.
I don't recall having seen the play at 2:44 but I'm definitely not surprised, considering the awareness and quickness of them both. Also, Bird shot to the backboard himself at least one time. Genius of Bird.
Please correct me if I am mistaken but early in his career Dennis Johnson was not a play-maker and passer, more of an open-court dribbler and scorer. It’s to his immense credit that he developed his passing and incredible court-sense over the course of his career, eventually becoming one of the dominant point guards in the game.
It's 2021 and I'm still commenting on what a beautiful team this was to watch. I hated them at the time, because I'm a Hawks fan, but looking back at it, damn! What a team. If Bird and McHale hadn't been injured they'd have at least one more trophy. Probably more.
Absolutely fantastic fundamental team basketball. Pure basketball chemistry with those two. Glad DJ finally got his spot in Springfield.
I loved watching Dennis Johnson play. That playoff game with Detroit when Bird fed DJ the ball down the lane for the win might have been the most exciting play I ever saw. DJ was awesome RIP big guy.
I'm using that backboard pass. I like that one
Bird told the story of when his friend and fellow Celtic, Rick Robey, disappointingly came to tell Bird that the Celtics had just traded him. Bird asked him whom he got traded for. Robey told him, Dennis Johnson. Bird replied, "Let me help you pack your things."
Stood in line at the grocery store with D.J. Did the double take. 15 seconds of asking myself is that him, should I talk to him.? Got to talk to him about one minute. So many questions wanted to ask. i was sort of in awe. Just remember he was real nice, for the most part humble. Not long after that they announced he died.
Jet-eye mind blowing basketball by perhaps the greatest duo in history. Close seconds are Magic- Kareem and Jorden Pippen.
It's funny how a guy will say someone was the best they played with or against and it's often times not who you'd expect. Payton said Stockton was the toughest opponent he ever faced. You'd think MJ or someone else even. You'd think Bird's best teammate was McHale, but it was DJ. They are in the trenches with these guys and so they know firsthand. DJ doesn't get the love but he was a great PG no doubt.
Yes, and Julius Erving said that his toughest matchup was Bernard King, not Larry Bird or John Havlicek.
Simon I have no doubt about that. King was just unfortunate but it's not like Bird was just made his bitch. They met head to head in 84 playoffs. Both in their primes and both not yet injured. Bird bested Bernard.
Bernard was a beast tho and was one of the most determined players ever. Had he been healthy in 85-90, I'm sure they'd got a ring or 2 or at least a Finals appearance.
CLewey44 Idk about King getting a title, at least not in NY. I mean he was great but the Knicks were not that good. Maybe King and Ewing would have been a winning duo, but I doubt that a very young Ewing could have taken those Knicks over the Celtics or the Pistons.
Maybe I need to watch more games of Bernard King.
Oh and concerning DJ, I really think he was a better player than McHale, he was crazy good.
Simon I think McHale scored very well and good at defending but DJ was one of those guys that never made mistakes and was just a great teammate to have. He was never really on a bad team. He hit key shots, made the right play and was a great lieutenant for Bird. Really a co-captain. I've seen LB chew some of his teammates, to include McHale but never saw him light up DJ. Never really had a reason to.
+CLewey44 Well, DJ was the best player on his Seattle and Phoenix teams before joining Boston.
One thing they forgot to add in the clips which I think is the best of them all was this 1987 playoffs clutch play and the commentary went a little something like this: "Now there's a steal by Bird! Underneath to DJ who lays it in!". You see, one half of that iconic play was obviously Larry Bird stealing the ball but the other half was DJ having a split-second reaction to Larry Bird. If DJ was a fraction slower then the defense recovers and he doesn't get an open layup or worse Larry Bird turns it back over because he was teetering on the edge of the baseline. That's the thing about these two. They seem to be two parts of the same player.
After DJ scores he hustles over to guard any inbound pass. Ain't over til whistle blows. Crowd going nuts but he KNEW. MOST UNDER RATED GUY of all time. AND CLUTCH. I'll take him and Bird to start ANY team. ANY ERA.
I actually thought this channel was made by Bill Simmons when I first found it, that's how great the quality of the videos are. Great finds for footage, great editing, great music! Love your work!
So did I..This guy is doing such a great job
I am blown away by these videos - a real special time in basketball history
DJ was the man. He hit ALOT of clutch shots too!!
The late, great DJ. Finally given his due by the HOF
It’s very fitting that their numbers are side by side in the rafters
Great idea for a compilation! Loved this one.
IMO the best starting lineup in basketball. D. J., BIRD, AINGE, CHIEF, AND KEVIN M.
Team work at its best.
Larry is a Legend......DJ was epic. He deserves to be better known.
God rest your soul in peace DJ. You were a winner through and through
We miss you dj ❤,bird said it all you were the best he played with #03 #33 glad yall side by side in the rafters ❤❤ you should have gotten your flowers dj 🎉❤
first off, jazzy elevator piano version of an MGMT song is so choice.
second, when DJ threw it at the backboard... so genius. right when it left his hands Bird was already on his page and looking for it. awesome to watch.
2 of the greatest team players
Amazing. Some of these passes were Magic Johnson-esque. And others, notably those off the dribble, were Stockton-esque. Beautiful chemistry between these two hoops legends.
Which came first - the DJ or the Stockton or the Magic?
Dennis Johnson is one of the greatest point guards of all-time. Not only did he make Larry better, he was a finals MVP in Seattle when that Sonics team won the chip. DJ is also one of the greatest defenders at the PG position of all-time. The 3 time champ was money.
I wish all basketball players would watch this and not the players today. Back then it was team ball and not hero ball
Are u EVER right, Josh. Iverson, Kobe, the Beard all gotta be the hero.
Please keep making these videos. They are incredible.
Just goes to show how effective team play can be. I’m not saying that it doesn’t happen at all today, but so many times the ball is fed to the ‘star’ of the team and if he doesn’t make the shot, they turn and head to the other end of the court. Many times not in there for the rebounds or fighting for the ball. Just doesn’t seem to be that level of commitment and team play that I was so fortunate to enjoy between the late 60s and the 90s.
Dude, the quality of your videos is AMAZING. Thanks for doing them, keep up the great work!
Do you need glasses?
I enjoyed watching DJ play. I first watched him play in Seattle under Coach Lenny Wilkins. DJ could do it all. He could score, defend, rebound and was always under control with the basketball. RIP DJ.
THIS is why Bird said Dennis Johnson was "definitely" the best player he ever played with.
I always remember going down to Boston to see the 1986 Celtics victory parade. Larry Bird was standing in the truck with both arms in the air and his girlfriend (later wife) at his side. Parish was there, and I touched Kevin McHale's hand. I don't recall seeing Bill Walton or DJ because I don't think parades were their thing, but they were sure great players on the court. Ainge was talking to someone in a truck.
D.J. What a genius. An artist of the highest caliber on the court.
Sad that Dennis Johnson is no longer here, he would have enjoyed the many stories together with old teammates. Great player, and made the whole Celtics team great and greater
2:52 Laimbeer just standing there going DUUUH!!
What amazing chemistry!
How about the 'secret defensive play' against the Detroit Pistons? Bird steals the ball, passes to DJ, DJ scores. Arguably the greatest defensive play ever.
When you give assist by bouncing it from the backboard, you are just showing off how many levels you are above ;)
Bird has done that to himself.
DJ... A great player, and sooo under-rated....
He was Magic Johnson
Amazing yet so simple.....the back door play, DJ to Bird, you hardly see that nowadays.
DJ was a better passer than anyone in the NBA,NFL or NHL since Bill Russell, Bart Starr or Bobby Orr era. Outstanding BB smarts and he did make LB a better player.
Oh my God. I am huge Larry Bird fan and I never realized that play was so good and DJ was so good.
Thanks for posting this . I learned something new today. Those were my glory days of watching the NBA
Awesome video. Thank you. That last pass, off the backboard... Just wow!
How about DJ matching Birds intuition when Larry stole Isaiahs inbound pass by cutting to the basket, knowing Bird would find him...
I'm back watching this for the 1,000th time
So sad that D J is not here. RIP Sir. I will treasure the Championships you help bring to Boston. You're sadly missed.
NOBODY did it better than this. There are and have been great passers. John Stockton was a god. But this chemistry was unbelievable. Just unbelievable.
Great great player and person.ty for great memory growing ☝. U one of te best life.ty again.
We miss you DJ! High praise indeed for the best player ever in LB to give DJ!
One of the most underrated players in NBA history. DJ was so unique. He was just a PG but his defense was awesome.
Poetry in motion, a thing of beauty.
Bird has to wait until the last second before he moves his hands up to catch the pass... he HAS TO make it look like he is just *passing through* the lane....
If you watch closely . DJ's passes are ALWAYS in the exact spot it has to be... it can not be off any more than 6" to 8" to work .. simply incredible ..!!!
((Many of those passes whizz right by the defenders body or head by inches... 👍👍👍
AND if Bitd raises his hands to quickly, or changes body position to early, it won't work..
Reminds me a bit of a fade rout in football...
DJ is one of the most underrated players ever. It's not as pretty as lebron, but I'd pick larry to win 7 out 10 games if both of them were given equal teams...
One thing about lebron, is he gets tons of hate in todays basketball for being a baby and flopping and blah blah blah, but one thing people don't understand is lebron goes out and plays fast and hard in todays much slower pace of basketball. His explosiveness proved himself in the 2000s when basketball was still played at a faster pace. But he's had to adapt to todays rules. He definitely would have fit in on the bad boy pistons in 86