Celtics Win
Boston acquired Chris Ford; 1981 second-round pick (#25 Tracy Jackson) from Pistons in exchange for Earl Tatum.
Boston Celtics Received
- Player Chris Ford
- Draft Pick 1981 second-round pick (#25 Tracy Jackson )
Detroit Pistons Received
- Player Earl Tatum
Trade Analysis
Boston Celtics Perspective
Chris Ford became a starter on the 1981 championship team and later an important organizational figure; the added second-round pick further improved Boston's return.
Detroit Pistons Perspective
Detroit clearly lost the trade. Detroit's return centered on Earl Tatum, while the outgoing package centered on Chris Ford, 1981 second round pick (#25 – Tracy Jackson). The outgoing side produced the transaction's clearly superior realized value. Contract timing, roster fit and Detroit's competitive window provide context, but the players and draft selections that actually materialized drive the verdict. The transaction has enough durable player value, draft consequence or franchise context to support substantive historical treatment.