In a move that’s set to shake up the NBA landscape, Boston Celtics forward Sam Hauser’s $45 million extension has just been inked. This dazzling four-year deal, confirmed by Hauser’s agent Jason Glushon, places him in a lucrative position, elevating his role as one of the league’s premier sharpshooters. Sam Hauser’s $45 million extension not only underscores his rising star but also signals a massive shift in the Celtics’ financial strategies.
How Sam Hauser’s $45 Million Extension is Shaping the Celtics’ Future
Hauser, renowned for his deadly precision from beyond the arc, is slated to earn $2 million for the 2024-25 season. This extension will keep him in a Celtics uniform through the 2028-29 season, contributing to what promises to be one of the priciest payrolls in NBA history. The Celtics are making waves with their ambitious spending, now projected to hit a staggering $225 million for the 2025-26 season, with an additional $210 million in luxury tax penalties.
From undrafted rookie to a key player, Hauser’s journey has been nothing short of remarkable. Having joined the NBA as a free agent from the University of Virginia in 2021, Hauser has rapidly become a cornerstone of Boston’s success. His 42.4% shooting accuracy from three-point range last season, placing him fourth among players with over 400 attempts, speaks volumes about his impact. Over his career, he’s maintained an impressive 42.2% shooting average from deep.
Hauser’s extension is just one part of the Celtics’ offseason strategy. The team has also secured major contracts for All-NBA forward Jayson Tatum, who signed a five-year, $315 million extension, and guard Derrick White, who received a four-year, $125 million deal. Together, these moves are pushing Boston’s payroll into unprecedented territory.
What does this mean for the Celtics? With their combined salary and luxury tax projections set to soar beyond previous records, the team is on track to surpass the Phoenix Suns’ current $432 million bill. The Celtics are also expected to breach the league’s second apron for a second consecutive year, which could have significant implications for their draft picks, making their 2032 and 2033 first-round selections essentially untouchable.
In an era where financial flexibility is key, the Celtics are betting big on Hauser and their core players, hoping to secure their place at the top of the NBA hierarchy. With Hauser’s recent achievements—like making 179 catch-and-shoot threes last season, the sixth most in the league—Boston’s investment in him seems well-placed. He even made history by joining Jaylen Brown and Marcus Smart as the third Celtic to nail 10 three-pointers in a single game last season.
This bold move by the Celtics isn’t just about securing a talented shooter; it’s a strategic gamble on their future. As the team navigates the complexities of a record-setting payroll, fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see if their financial gamble pays off in championship success.
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