5 reasons why Paul Pierce is underrated

#2 He made bad career choices after his run with the Celtics

Pierce defended by Allen during the 2014 NBA playoffs

With Boston Celtics' GM Danny Ainge deciding to build the roster back up from scratch following the 2012-13 season, Paul Pierce and Kevin Garnett were traded to the Brooklyn Nets in what was probably the best trade of the century.

Pierce's time at Brooklyn did not bring much postseason success, understandably because the foursome of Deron Williams, Joe Johnson, Pierce and Garnett was past its prime and could not compete with the Miami Heat Big 3. He subsequently moved to a young Washington Wizards team, where he should have retired as a veteran leader.

But he decided to try and win one more ring, prompting a signing with the Los Angeles Clippers with a 3-year, $10-million contract. He was only available for 2 of those years, and the last images of Pierce in the league are those of a thoroughly outmatched player in need of retirement - ultimately altering his enduring image.