I’m sure that many of you have already read Bill Simmons’ article on the passing of Celtics great Dennis Johnson. I’m also sure that the more jaded among you have chalked it up to his standard Celtic-loving.

Don’t do that this time. I became aware as an NBA fan during DJ’s run at the top. I hated those Celtic teams… more than most, since the local Knicks were so bad during the same time. My family was full of de facto Laker fans back then, just because they weren’t the Celtics.

DJ had no ego. He didn’t demand the ball despite being among greats like Bird, McHale, Walton and Parrish, but he always knew what to do with it. Except for Bird, he’d kill you more than those other guys.

Three rings, a Finals MVP, nine All-Defensive Teams, a pair of all-NBA teams, and an incredible college career to boot. What does a guy have to do to get into the Hall of Fame?

Read Simmons’ article again, and believe every single word. Really.

Dennis Johnson, 1954-2007. You did basketball better than it did you, DJ. Rest in peace.