Sam Hauser Signs Four-Year Extension with Celtics Worth $45 Million
Sam Hauser, a sharpshooting guard with a career average of over 42% from beyond the arc, has solidified his future with the Boston Celtics. The Celtics have inked Hauser to a four-year, $45 million contract extension, demonstrating their confidence in his ability to contribute to the team's success.
Hauser, who went undrafted out of the University of Virginia in 2021, quickly found a home with the Celtics, signing with the team immediately after the draft. His journey from undrafted rookie to integral part of the Celtics' roster is a testament to his skill and hardworking nature.
This upcoming season will see Hauser earning $2 million, a significant sum for a player who had to prove his mettle to secure a spot in the NBA. His impressive shooting accuracy makes him a valuable asset for the Celtics, particularly in an era where effective outside shooting is highly coveted.
The Celtics haven't stopped at Hauser's extension; they've also secured a supermax extension for Jayson Tatum, ensuring their superstar remains the team's focal point for the foreseeable future. Additionally, Derrick White has committed to a substantial four-year, $125.9 million deal, adding another significant piece to the Celtics' roster puzzle.
Given these financial commitments, the Celtics are currently over the second apron line, a challenging position that reflects both the team's ambition and its substantial salary obligations. The franchise is slated to have approximately $225 million in salary commitments for the 2025-26 season. Consequently, they are facing an estimated luxury tax bill of $210 million, a figure that underscores the financial pressure the team will be under to deliver success on the court.
In other news, Xavier Tillman will re-sign with the Celtics for the minimum, providing some salary cap relief amid their other hefty financial commitments. However, the team will see departures as Oshae Brissett and Svi Mykhailiuk are the only players from last year's squad not expected to return for the upcoming season. Their absence will undoubtedly lead to adjustments in the roster dynamics.
Looking further ahead, Celtics fans will need to keep an eye on Kristaps Porzingis, who is slated for free agency in 2026. Decisions around his contract will be crucial as the team plans its long-term strategy.
The series of moves made by the Celtics showcases a commitment to retaining and augmenting talent, setting the stage for what promises to be an intriguing season. With Hauser now officially on board for the next four years, alongside key re-signings and strategic financial planning, the Celtics are clearly aiming to maintain their competitive edge in the NBA.
The financial balancing act the team is performing will be under scrutiny, not just from an operational perspective but also from fans and analysts eager to see if these investments translate to on-court success. The weight of high expectations will be felt by all, setting the stage for a season of formidable challenges and potential triumphs for the Boston Celtics.