Hauser Locks in Four-Year Deal with the Celtics
Sam Hauser, the undrafted gem who has steadily carved out a name for himself in the NBA, has agreed to a four-year, $45 million contract extension with the Boston Celtics. This deal marks a significant endorsement from the Celtics on Hauser, who went undrafted out of the University of Virginia in 2021.
Known for his sharpshooting skills, Hauser has maintained an impressive career average of over 42% on 3-pointers. His ability to consistently deliver from beyond the arc has not only earned him a place in the league but also solidified his role within the Celtics' roster. After signing with Boston immediately after going undrafted, Hauser has steadily progressed, proving his worth to the organization.
Hauser’s new contract ensures he will earn $2 million for the upcoming season. This financial validation underscores his contribution to the team and the organization's belief in his continued development. The contract extension is part of a broader strategy by the Celtics to lock in key players and maintain their competitive edge in the league.
Bolstering the Roster
In addition to Hauser’s extension, the Celtics have made significant moves to strengthen their lineup. The team has secured a supermax extension for their cornerstone player Jayson Tatum and agreed to a four-year, $125.9 million deal for Derrick White. These moves indicate a clear commitment to building a championship-contending team around a core group of highly valued players.
While the Celtics have solidified deals with these key players, they are facing substantial financial commitments in the near future. The team is currently over the second apron line, which puts them in a challenging position with regard to the luxury tax. Projections show that the Celtics are slated to have approximately $225 million in salary commitments for the 2025-26 season, accompanied by an estimated $210 million luxury tax bill.
Managing the Cap
The Celtics' front office will have to navigate these financial waters carefully. Despite the hefty contracts and the ensuing luxury tax implications, the team has managed to bring back Xavier Tillman on a veteran minimum deal. This move adds depth to the roster without further exacerbating their cap concerns.
However, not all players from last year’s squad will be returning. Oshae Brissett and Svi Mykhailiuk are the only members who are not expected to come back for the upcoming season. Their departures open up opportunities for other players to step up and fill the voids left behind.
One eye is also on the horizon where Kristaps Porzingis will become a free agent in 2026. His future will be an essential storyline for the Celtics' long-term planning, as retaining or replacing a player of his caliber will undoubtedly have significant ramifications.
A Future Focused on Success
The Celtics’ aggressive moves in locking up their core players and managing their salary commitments reflect their intent to remain contenders in a highly competitive league. Hauser’s extension, alongside Tatum’s and White’s, showcase a determined approach to building a sustainable and formidable roster. Despite the financial challenges, the Celtics have put forth a strategic effort to balance talent retention with cap management. Their ability to navigate these complexities will be instrumental in their quest for NBA supremacy.
As the green lights of the TD Garden illuminate the path forward, the Celtics' faithful can look forward to an exciting season, with Sam Hauser and his sharpshooting prowess set to play a pivotal role in the team’s success.