In a significant move solidifying their roster for the foreseeable future, the Boston Celtics have secured a four-year, $45 million contract extension with sharpshooter Sam Hauser. This new agreement comes as Hauser, who went undrafted out of the University of Virginia in 2021, continues to impress with his impeccable 3-point shooting, boasting a career average of over 42% from beyond the arc.
Hauser’s NBA journey began immediately after the 2021 draft when the Celtics, recognizing his potential, signed him as an undrafted free agent. His rapid rise within the team is a testament to his skills and perseverance.
As part of his extension, Hauser will earn $2 million this upcoming season, providing excellent value for a player of his caliber in the modern NBA, where floor spacing and shooting are paramount. Hauser’s ability to knock down threes efficiently makes him a vital piece of the Celtics’ offensive scheme.
Boston's Roster Moves: Tatum and White Lead the Way
The Celtics are making significant financial investments to maintain a competitive roster. In addition to Hauser's extension, Boston has locked up star player Jayson Tatum with a lucrative supermax contract extension, ensuring that their cornerstone will remain with the team for years to come.
Derrick White, another key player, has also agreed to a four-year, $125.9 million deal, indicating Boston's commitment to keeping their core intact. White's versatility and defensive prowess add crucial depth and resilience to the roster.
Financial Implications: Luxury Tax and Salary Cap Considerations
However, these substantial contracts come with financial consequences. The Celtics are currently over the second apron line, with salary commitments projected to reach approximately $225 million for the 2025-26 season. Consequently, the team is facing an estimated $210 million luxury tax bill, a considerable amount even for a franchise with deep pockets. Managing these financial hurdles while remaining competitive will be a delicate balancing act for the Boston front office.
Role Players and Roster Changes
Amid these major financial commitments, the Celtics continue to make smaller, strategic moves to round out their roster. Xavier Tillman has re-signed with the Celtics for the minimum, providing valuable depth and energy off the bench. While Tillman may not be a headline-grabber, his role in the Celtics' rotation will be essential, particularly during the grind of the regular season and into the playoffs.
Meanwhile, Oshae Brissett and Svi Mykhailiuk are the only players from last year's team not expected to return. Their departures, while notable, open up opportunities for other players to step up and fill the voids left behind.
Looking Ahead: Future Prospects and Free Agency
Looking to the future, the Celtics will face important decisions regarding player contracts and roster construction. A key date on the horizon is 2026, when Kristaps Porzingis is slated for free agency. How the team navigates his contract situation, along with those of other up-and-coming players, will be critical to sustaining their competitive edge in the years to come.
Overall, the Boston Celtics are taking bold steps to ensure that they remain one of the elite teams in the NBA. With Sam Hauser’s contract extension, supermax deals for Jayson Tatum, and a significant investment in Derrick White, the Celtics are clearly committed to winning now while also planning for a sustainable future. Balancing financial obligations with on-court success will undoubtedly be a challenging task, but the Celtics seem poised to navigate these waters with strategic precision.