Sam Hauser Secures Four-Year Extension with Boston Celtics
In a significant move that underscores their long-term strategy, the Boston Celtics have locked down sharpshooter Sam Hauser with a four-year, $45 million contract extension. Hauser, who famously went undrafted out of the University of Virginia in 2021, has quickly proven his worth in the NBA, particularly with his remarkable accuracy from beyond the arc.
Hauser's journey to the NBA wasn’t a conventional one. After not hearing his name called on draft night, he signed with the Celtics immediately, seizing the opportunity with both hands. Since then, he’s built a commendable career, boasting a three-point shooting average of over 42%. His shooting prowess has made him a vital asset for the Celtics, providing the team with much-needed floor spacing and scoring punch off the bench.
This season will see Hauser earning $2 million, a figure that is set to escalate significantly over the tenure of his new deal. His extension is a testament to the Celtics' faith in his development and potential to contribute to their championship aspirations.
Celtics' Roster Moves and Financial Landscape
Hauser’s extension is just one of several key moves the Celtics have made to solidify their roster. The team has also managed to secure a supermax extension for their franchise cornerstone, Jayson Tatum. Meanwhile, Derrick White has agreed to a lucrative four-year, $125.9 million deal, ensuring that the Celtics have a strong core moving forward.
However, these financial commitments do come with significant implications. The Celtics find themselves over the second apron line, with salary commitments ballooning to approximately $225 million for the 2025-26 season. This fiscal strategy comes with a hefty price tag, as the team is staring down an estimated $210 million luxury tax bill. This underlines the organization's all-in approach to contending for an NBA championship in the near future.
Offseason Retentions and Departures
The Celtics have been proactive in retaining key role players. Xavier Tillman has re-signed for the minimum, carrying forward his reliable defense and rebounding. However, the team will see some changes, as Oshae Brissett and Svi Mykhailiuk are the only players from last year's squad not expected to return for the upcoming season. These departures open the door for other players to step up and fill the void.
Looking ahead, the Celtics are also keeping an eye on the future of Kristaps Porzingis, who is slated to hit free agency in 2026. While his long-term status with the team remains uncertain, his presence will be crucial in the short term as Boston aims to maintain competitiveness in a stacked Eastern Conference.
Conclusion
The Boston Celtics are clearly in win-now mode, investing heavily in their core and supporting cast. Sam Hauser’s extension is a clear indication of their strategy to blend star power with essential role players. With the financial stakes higher than ever, the Celtics’ front office is banking on this blend of talent to bring the Larry O’Brien Trophy back to Boston in the coming years.