The 2010-11 Boston Celtics enjoyed a strong season, finishing first in the Atlantic Division and third in the Eastern Conference with a 56-26 record. Led by the "Big Four" of Paul Pierce, Ray Allen, Kevin Garnett, and Rajon Rondo, the team boasted the league's top-rated defense and showcased their championship pedigree by sweeping the New York Knicks in the first round of the playoffs. Despite facing mid-season roster changes and injuries, the Celtics remained a premier contender and advanced to the Eastern Conference Semifinals, highlighting a season of continued excellence under coach Doc Rivers. The 2011-12 Boston Celtics enjoyed a strong season, finishing with a 39-27 record to secure first place in the Atlantic Division and the fourth seed in the Eastern Conference. Under the leadership of head coach Doc Rivers and the veteran "Big Three" of Paul Pierce, Kevin Garnett, and Ray Allen, the team showcased its resilience during a lockout-shortened schedule. Bolstered by Rajon Rondo leading the league in assists per game, the Celtics made a deep postseason run, defeating the Atlanta Hawks and Philadelphia 76ers before pushing the eventual champion Miami Heat to a thrilling seven games in the Eastern Conference Finals. A 2018 Hall of Fame inductee and two-time NBA champion, Ray Allen was an elite sharpshooter and 10-time All-Star who helped lead the Boston Celtics to the 2008 NBA title.