“Kevin is the best in the world at what he does,” said Bird, not long after McHale passed the 15,000-point milestone. “Turnaround jumpers, shooting on a double-team, blocking shots. If Kevin wanted to, he could be the top defender in the league, too. The things he can’t do are dribble the basketball, fall on the floor to get the ball, and not bitch at the officials.” He laughed. “But to me he’s been most valuable because he’s the ultimate bailout. No matter how much trouble I’ll be in, I know I can always throw the ball to Kevin, and he’ll be able to get the basket and take the pressure off.”
