Ford's move was mainly to solve the longstanding problem of the Celtics' weak bench. In the mid to late 1980s, the Celtics almost became a five-man starting team with very weak bench strength.
With KC-Jones leaving, the new coach Ford and the Celtics management were focused on addressing this issue. Apart from McHale, the Celtics also brought in substitute players like Kevin Gambler and Dee Brown, significantly bolstering the strength of their second unit.
With a starting lineup skilled in passing and a fluid team offense, combined with substitutes who were strong both inside and outside, this balanced and clearly defined lineup naturally led to good records for the Celtics.
The Green Army reignited hopes of returning to the finals and even reclaiming the championship.
