The top 5 Boston Celtics rookie seasons of all-time

3. Dave Cowens (1970-71): 17.0 points, 15.0 rebounds, 2.8 assists

Before he was an NBA coach, Dave Cowens was a star for the Celtics in the 70’s. He played 10 seasons in Boston, and he was a key starter right away in 1970 as he averaged 17 points, 15 rebounds, and 2.8 assists in 38 minutes played per game. Those numbers earned Cowens the NBA Rookie of the Year Award.The NBA Hall of Famer won two championships with Boston while being named to 8 All-Star games. Cowens was named to the All-NBA team three

The NBA Hall of Famer won two championships with Boston while being named to 8 All-Star games. Cowens was named to the All-NBA team three times and was named to the All-Defensive team three times as well. His #18 was retired in 1981 and will never be worn again by any member of the Boston Celtics.

Cowens became an NBA coach after his playing career, with 1 season in Boston. As the coach in 1978-79, he went just 27-41. He was a bit more successful as the Charlotte Hornets head coach from 1996 to 1998 with a 109-70 record. Cowens would go on to coach the Golden State Warriors and finished his career as an assistant for the Detroit Pistons.