Carr's early professional career saw him playing in the American Basketball Association (ABA) for the Spirits of St. Louis. However, his time in the ABA was short-lived as the league merged with the NBA in 1976. Carr then transitioned to the NBA, where he initially played for the Detroit Pistons. During his tenure with the Pistons, Carr developed a reputation as a tenacious defender and a player who could energize his team with his hustle and enthusiasm.
In 1979, Carr signed with the Boston Celtics, a move that would define the most memorable years of his playing career. With the Celtics, Carr became known for his defensive skills and his ability to come off the bench and provide a spark. He played a crucial role in the Celtics' success during the early 1980s, including their championship-winning season in 1981. Carr's defensive efforts and leadership were instrumental in the Celtics' playoff runs, and he became a fan favorite for his spirited play and charismatic personality.
Carr's playing career with the Celtics lasted until 1985, after which he transitioned into a coaching and executive role. He served as the head coach of the Celtics from 1995 to 1997, a period during which the team was undergoing a rebuilding phase. Although his coaching tenure did not yield significant success in terms of wins and losses, Carr's influence on the team and his ability to mentor younger players were valued by the organization.
Beyond his on-court achievements, Carr was known for his community involvement and his efforts to use basketball as a platform for positive change. He was active in various charitable endeavors and worked to promote the sport among young people.
Throughout his career, M.L.
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