In a significant move that underscores their commitment to building a formidable roster, the Boston Celtics have secured forward Sam Hauser on a four-year, $45 million contract extension. The undrafted sharpshooter from the University of Virginia continues to rise within the ranks of the NBA, reflecting a savvy investment in talent by the Celtics' front office.
A Closer Look at Hauser’s Journey
Hauser's journey to this point is nothing short of inspiring. Despite going undrafted in 2021, he quickly caught the eye of the Celtics, who signed him immediately after the draft. Since then, Hauser has become an integral part of the team, boasting a career average of over 42% on 3-pointers. His ability to consistently deliver from beyond the arc has been a crucial asset for Boston, providing the team with much-needed spacing and offensive firepower.
This extension not only secures Hauser's future with the Celtics but also reaffirms the team's confidence in his development and potential. For Hauser, the upcoming season will see him earning $2 million, a clear indication of his growing value within the squad.
Other Major Moves by the Celtics
The Celtics have not stopped at Hauser. In a series of strategic moves, the team has also secured a supermax extension for their perennial All-Star, Jayson Tatum. This long-term commitment to Tatum is a testament to his importance to the Celtics' championship ambitions.
Additionally, the team has agreed to a substantial four-year, $125.9 million deal with Derrick White. Known for his defensive prowess and playmaking ability, White's extension ensures stability and a robust defensive presence in the backcourt for Boston.
However, these hefty contracts come at a cost. The Celtics are now over the second apron line, a position that comes with financial penalties and restrictions. The team is slated to have approximately $225 million in salary commitments for the 2025-26 season, leading to an estimated $210 million luxury tax bill. Navigating these financial waters will be a critical challenge for the Celtics' management moving forward.
Roster Adjustments and Cap Considerations
In the midst of these significant financial commitments, the Celtics have managed to re-sign Xavier Tillman for the minimum. This move helps balance the books somewhat, providing depth without adding to the mounting salary debts.
Meanwhile, there have been some exits. Oshae Brissett and Svi Mykhailiuk are the only players from last year's squad not expected to return for the upcoming season. Their departure creates opportunities for emerging talents and new acquisitions to make their mark as the team looks to maintain its competitive edge.
Another key player to watch will be Kristaps Porzingis, who is slated for free agency in 2026. His performance and ability to stay healthy will be crucial for the Celtics as they aim to justify his spot on the roster amidst their financial strategies.
As the Boston Celtics gear up for the new season, these moves reflect a clear strategy—invest heavily in proven talent while navigating the complexities of the NBA's financial landscape. Sam Hauser’s contract extension highlights the team’s eye for underappreciated talent and commitment to long-term development. Paired with the anchors provided by stars like Tatum and White, the Celtics are positioning themselves to be perennial contenders, albeit with the added challenge of managing an inflated payroll.