In a significant development for the Boston Celtics, Sam Hauser has signed a four-year, $45 million contract extension, solidifying his place in the team's future plans. This deal marks a pivotal moment for Hauser, who, despite going undrafted in 2021 out of the University of Virginia, has carved out an essential role in Boston.
Hauser’s Journey from Undrafted to Impact Player
Sam Hauser's journey to the NBA was far from straightforward. After not hearing his name called on draft night in 2021, he immediately signed with the Celtics, determined to prove his worth. His performance has been nothing short of impressive, highlighted by his remarkable accuracy from beyond the arc, boasting a career average of over 42% on 3-pointers.
This sharpshooting prowess has undoubtedly been a crucial factor in the Celtics’ decision to commit to Hauser long-term. With his new contract, Hauser will earn $2 million in the upcoming season, underscoring the team's confidence in his continued development and contributions.
The Celtics’ Financial Commitments
Hauser's extension is part of a broader strategy by the Celtics to secure their core players for the foreseeable future. This approach was also evident in the supermax extension secured for Jayson Tatum, and the four-year, $125.9 million deal for Derrick White. These significant financial commitments illustrate the Celtics’ ambition to build a championship-caliber team, even if it means navigating complex salary cap challenges.
The Celtics are currently over the second apron line, a reflection of their substantial investments in player salaries. Looking ahead to the 2025-26 season, the team is slated to have approximately $225 million in salary commitments, a figure that firmly places them among the NBA's highest spenders. This financial strategy comes with consequences, including an estimated $210 million luxury tax bill, a hefty price the franchise appears willing to pay to maintain its competitive edge.
Team Roster Adjustments
Amid these significant financial moves, the Celtics have also made other key roster adjustments. Xavier Tillman has re-signed for the minimum, providing valuable depth and experience to the squad. However, not all faces from last season will be returning. Oshae Brissett and Svi Mykhailiuk are the only players from last year's team not expected to return for the upcoming season, indicating a strategic shift as the Celtics retool their roster for another championship run.
Free Agency and Future Prospects
Looking further ahead, Kristaps Porzingis is slated for free agency in 2026. This future decision point will be crucial for the Celtics as they balance retaining talent with managing the luxury tax implications. Porzingis’ performance and fit with the team will be under close watch, as his potential departure could significantly impact the Celtics' lineup and salary structure.
Sam Hauser’s extension is a testament to his hard work and the Celtics' belief in his potential. His journey from undrafted free agent to a key player securing a lucrative contract is an inspiring narrative, reflecting both his dedication and the Celtics' strategic vision. As Boston continues to navigate its financial landscape, these moves signify a clear commitment to building a formidable roster capable of contending for NBA titles in the years to come.