Paul Pierce giveth, and Paul Pierce taketh away.
The veteran forward has been nails for the Washington Wizards in the NBA playoffs, averaging 16.4 points through eight games and drilling a buzzer-beater for the ages in Saturday’s Game 3 victory over the Atlanta Hawks.
Pierce had the chance to play hero again in Game 4 on Monday night. The result, however, was a bit different.
The former Boston Celtic had a much easier chance than his desperation heave in Game 3, but his shot clanked off the back iron, allowing Atlanta to even the series with a 104-101 win.
“Thought I got a great look,” Pierce said after the game, via The Associated Press.
Of course, Pierce did plenty to get Washington to that position in the first place. He scored 22 points, including this fancy step-back three in the first quarter.
The Truth also made history, moving further up the NBA’s all-time postseason scoring list by passing another former Celtic.
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We’re sure Pierce would trade that honor to redo his open look at the buzzer, but if these NBA playoffs are any indication, he’ll have ample opportunity for redemption.
Thumbnail photo via Alex Brandon/Associated Press
