Part 6/8:
The discussion of who was better between McHale and Johnson is laden with nuance. Both players made significant contributions to the Celtics' success, and while statistically, McHale has a strong case, Johnson showcased exceptional performances that led to legendary moments, particularly in the 1979 NBA Finals.
Johnson’s clutch performance, following a devastating playoff game the previous year, underscored his resilience and skill. Bird's high regard for Johnson further complicated the perception of McHale’s significance on the team, nestling McHale’s accomplishments within a larger discourse of loyalty to teammates and their individual legacies.