Sam Hauser Agrees to Four-Year Deal with Boston Celtics
The Boston Celtics continue to solidify their roster for the upcoming seasons. In a notable move, Sam Hauser has secured a four-year, $45 million contract extension with the team. This successful negotiation marks a significant milestone for Hauser, who initially went undrafted out of the University of Virginia in 2021.
Hauser, who signed with the Celtics immediately after the draft in 2021, has proven his value to the team. With a career average of over 42% on three-pointers, his sharp shooting has become a key asset for the Celtics’ offensive strategies. His new contract will have him earning $2 million in the upcoming season, a deserved reward for his consistent performance.
Building Around a Core of Talent
The Celtics' front office is clearly focused on retaining and building around a solid core of talented players. Apart from Hauser’s extension, the team has also secured a supermax extension for Jayson Tatum. While the specific details of Tatum's deal haven’t been highlighted, supermax contracts typically reflect a team's commitment to a franchise player.
Derrick White is another cornerstone in the Celtics' blueprint for success. White has agreed to a substantial four-year deal worth $125.9 million. These extensions underscore the team’s strategy to maintain continuity and invest in the players who have shown promise and commitment.
Navigating Financial Challenges
However, these aggressive moves come at a significant financial cost. The Celtics are currently over the second apron line, a benchmark that triggers stricter luxury tax penalties. The team's future salary commitments amount to approximately $225 million for the 2025-26 season, indicating a substantial financial investment in maintaining their competitive edge.
This hefty payroll leads to an estimated $210 million luxury tax bill for the team. Nonetheless, it appears the Celtics are prepared to bear these costs in pursuit of NBA glory.
Roster Adjustments and Retentions
In addition to the headline deals, the Celtics have made several other roster decisions. Xavier Tillman has re-signed with the Celtics for the minimum, demonstrating a commitment to keeping valuable role players. Meanwhile, Oshae Brissett and Svi Mykhailiuk are the only players from last year's roster not expected to return for the upcoming season.
Looking ahead, Kristaps Porzingis is another player whose future looms on the horizon, with free agency slated for 2026. How the Celtics manage their roster in the long term will be an ongoing narrative, especially in balancing top-tier talent with emerging players.
The moves made by the Celtics showcase a strategic blend of retaining proven talent and making tactical adjustments. As the new season approaches, eyes will be on whether this high-spending, high-commitment approach will translate into on-court success.