Sam Hauser Signs Four-Year Extension with Celtics, Amidst Financial Challenges
The Boston Celtics secured a significant piece of their future by signing Sam Hauser to a four-year, $45 million contract extension. Hauser, who went undrafted out of the University of Virginia in 2021, has defied expectations and established himself as a valuable asset for the Celtics. Immediately after going undrafted, Hauser signed with the team, and his journey since then has been nothing short of remarkable.
Over the course of his career, Hauser has proven to be a sharpshooter, boasting a career average of over 42% on three-pointers. This impressive stat underscores his ability to stretch the floor and provide crucial spacing for a Celtics team laden with talent. As part of his new deal, Hauser will earn $2 million in the upcoming season, a testament to his growth and value to the franchise.
Celtics' Commitment to Core Players
The extension for Hauser is just one piece of a broader strategy by the Celtics to lock in their core players. The team also secured a supermax extension for Jayson Tatum, one of the premier talents in the league. Additionally, Derrick White agreed to a four-year, $125.9 million deal, further solidifying the Celtics' backcourt for the foreseeable future.
Despite these strategic moves, the financial implications for the Celtics are substantial. The team is currently over the second apron line, a threshold that triggers additional financial penalties. With salary commitments slated to reach approximately $225 million for the 2025-26 season, the Celtics are facing an estimated $210 million luxury tax bill. These figures highlight the organization’s willingness to invest heavily in its championship aspirations.
Continuity Amidst Change
While key players remain locked in, the Celtics have seen some changes in their roster. Xavier Tillman has re-signed with the team for the minimum, providing much-needed depth. However, Oshae Brissett and Svi Mykhailiuk are the only players from last year's squad not expected to return for the upcoming season. These movements illustrate the Celtics' effort to maintain a balance between stability and flexibility.
Looking ahead, Kristaps Porzingis is expected to become a free agent in 2026, adding another layer of complexity to the team’s financial and strategic planning. The Celtics will need to navigate these waters carefully to maximize their chances of contending for a championship in the coming years.
The organization’s aggressive financial strategy is clear: they are willing to incur significant luxury tax penalties to keep their core intact and maintain a competitive edge. This commitment reflects the high stakes and intense competition in the NBA, where maintaining a talented roster often comes at a steep financial cost.
In summary, the Celtics' recent moves, highlighted by Sam Hauser’s four-year extension, showcase a clear vision for the future. Despite the financial hurdles, the team is determined to build and sustain a championship-caliber roster. Fans can expect an exciting season ahead as the Celtics strive to translate their off-court investments into on-court success.