22 Stars the Dallas Mavericks missed drafting by a single pick

9. Paul Pierce

With the No. 9 pick in the 1998 NBA Draft, the Dallas Mavericks selected Dirk Nowitzki. This selection may be the greatest draft pick of all time considering he brought Dallas their only NBA Finals and is a staple for them on and off the floor, but the player who was selected one pick after Nowitzi was also a legend.

With the No. 10 pick in the 1998 NBA Draft, the Boston Celtics selected Paul Pierce. Pierce was a staple for the Celtics and helped bring them an NBA Championship in 2008, and his offensive dominance and clutch ability.

Pierce averaged 19.7 points, 5.6 rebounds, 3.5 assists, and 1.3 steals per game for his career while shooting 44.5 percent from the field and 36.8 percent from downtown. He was a walking bucket during his days in the NBA, and he was extremely difficult to stop.

Pierce was a great 3-point shooter off the catch and his scoring off the dribble was underrated. He was also a decent defender, and his loyalty and leadership for the Celtics will never be forgotten in Boston.

Following his days playing for the Celtics, Pierce also played for the Brooklyn Nets, Washington Wizards, and LA Clippers. Pierce's career accolades include a Hall of Fame induction, 10 All-Star appearances, one NBA Championship, and four All-NBA team appearances.

Pierce had an amazing career, and he's one of the greatest Celtics ever.