Boston Celtics Secure Key Players with Hauser's Extension and Major Deals
In a significant move to solidify their roster, the Boston Celtics have agreed to a four-year, $45 million contract extension with sharpshooter Sam Hauser. Hauser, who went undrafted out of the University of Virginia in 2021, has proven to be a valuable asset to the team, particularly with his exceptional accuracy from beyond the arc. With a career average of over 42% on three-pointers, his shooting prowess has made him an integral part of the Celtics' offensive strategy.
Hauser's journey with the Celtics began immediately after going undrafted, as the team swiftly recognized his potential and signed him in 2021. His new contract, which starts with a $2 million payout for the upcoming season, reflects the team’s confidence in his continued development and contribution to their success.
Big Moves for Boston
Hauser's extension isn’t the only noteworthy transaction the Celtics have orchestrated this offseason. The team has also secured a supermax extension for their star forward Jayson Tatum, ensuring that their franchise player remains the cornerstone of their lineup. Alongside Tatum, Derrick White has committed to a four-year deal worth $125.9 million, solidifying the backcourt with his versatile skills and defensive acumen.
While these deals underscore the Celtics' commitment to retaining top talent, they also come with significant financial implications. The team is currently over the second apron line, a threshold with considerable luxury tax penalties. With projections indicating approximately $225 million in salary commitments for the 2025-26 season, the Celtics are facing an estimated $210 million luxury tax bill. Such financial burdens underscore the high-stakes nature of the organization’s win-now approach.
Roster Modifications and Challenges
In addition to their major signings, the Celtics have made other strategic adjustments to their roster. Xavier Tillman has re-signed with the team for the minimum salary, providing valuable depth and experience off the bench. However, the team will be without Oshae Brissett and Svi Mykhailiuk this coming season, as both players are not expected to return. This change presents an opportunity for younger players and new acquisitions to step up and fill the void.
Looking ahead, the Celtics will also need to navigate the future of Kristaps Porzingis, who is slated to enter free agency in 2026. Balancing these contract commitments while maintaining financial flexibility will remain a critical challenge for the team’s front office.
Conclusion
The Boston Celtics' flurry of contract extensions and strategic maneuvers epitomizes their aggressive stance toward assembling a championship-caliber team. With Sam Hauser's long-term deal secured, alongside major commitments to Jayson Tatum and Derrick White, the Celtics have reinforced their core strength while bracing for significant luxury tax ramifications. As the new season approaches, all eyes will be on how these investments translate to on-court success and whether the team can navigate their financial landscape effectively.