Celtics Forward as Good as Gone After Summer League Play

The Boston Celtics face roster challenges while preparing for the upcoming season without star Jayson Tatum and attempting to avoid the restrictive "second apron" salary cap penalties. This financial pressure has already driven significant offseason departures, including trading Jrue Holiday and Kristaps Porzingis for salary relief. Boston is also actively seeking to trade Anfernee Simons, acquired in the Holiday deal, and may make further moves as the Summer League concludes.

Despite signing forward Sam Hauser to a four-year, $45 million extension last offseason, the Celtics are now considering trading him to reduce salary and get below the second apron threshold. Hauser, a key bench contributor, averaged 7.4 points and 2.9 rebounds over his career and shot 42% from three-point range. He posted career highs during the Celtics' 2023-24 championship run and maintained strong shooting percentages last season (41.6% from three, 45.1% overall).

Although trading a recently extended player like Hauser seems counterintuitive, the Celtics' $203.3 million payroll for next season motivates the desire for further salary shedding to increase roster flexibility. Avoiding the second apron for a second consecutive year is crucial to prevent long-term repercussions that would hinder their ability to contend upon Tatum's return. While difficult, dealing Hauser might be the necessary step to preserve the option of adding players next season.