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[Saba Sports News] The Boston Celtics signed Sam Hauser to a four-year, $45 million extension, significantly impacting their 2025-2026 payroll. According to Adrian Wojnarowski, this elevates the payroll to $225 million, resulting in a $210 million luxury tax penalty, the highest in the league, pushing the Celtics over the second apron for a second consecutive year.
Hauser’s extension underscores his value to the team. The 26-year-old undrafted player from the University of Virginia has been a development success for the Celtics, shooting an impressive 42.4% from beyond the arc last season, ranking fourth among players with over 400 attempts. His consistent catch-and-shoot three-pointers have made him a vital asset, contributing to the Celtics’ championship aspirations.
This extension follows significant financial commitments to other key players, including All-NBA forward Jayson Tatum and guard Derrick White. Tatum signed a five-year, $315 million extension, while White secured a four-year, $125 million deal. These contracts, combined with Hauser’s, highlight the Celtics’ strategy to maintain a competitive roster, despite the significant financial cost.
The Celtics’ combined salary and luxury tax for the 2025-2026 season is projected to be the largest in NBA history. This financial burden results from retaining top talent and the NBA’s luxury tax rules, which impose steep penalties on teams with high payrolls.
Despite the financial strain, the Celtics have locked in a core group of players who can compete at a high level. Hauser’s contract, which runs through the 2028-2029 season, ensures that the team retains one of its most effective shooters, though the financial implications are considerable, potentially affecting the team’s flexibility in future seasons.
Led by Brad Stevens, Celtics management is committed to sustaining the team’s competitive edge. With Hauser’s extension, the Celtics aim to balance retaining key talent while navigating the financial challenges posed by the luxury tax, underscoring their ambition to remain a top contender in the NBA for years to come.