Celtics make stance on Sam Hauser crystal clear amid painful offseason

The Boston Celtics implemented significant cost-cutting measures this summer, dismantling a competitive roster to reduce salary and avoid severe luxury tax penalties under the new ownership transition. Key moves included trading Jrue Holiday and Kristaps Porzingis, while allowing Al Horford and Luke Kornet to depart, pivoting to a deliberate "gap year" strategy after Jayson Tatum's Achilles injury in the playoffs.

Despite this aggressive payroll reduction, sharpshooter Sam Hauser was notably retained. Though his four-year, $11 million annual contract—considered reasonable for his elite shooting—represented a potential luxury for a rebuilding team, the Celtics never seriously entertained trading him. Most trade windows have passed, signaling Boston's intent to keep him long-term.

Hauser's value lies in his extraordinary consistency: he has shot between 41.8% and 43.2% from three-point range over four NBA seasons, averaging exactly 42%. His volume (9.5 attempts per 36 minutes) and reliability align perfectly with Boston's high-volume three-point strategy, making him an indispensable floor-spacer.

At 27 years old with ideal size (6'8") and a team-friendly contract, Hauser is viewed as a core piece for the Celtics' post-2026 resurgence. The organization recognizes that replicating his skill set is difficult, especially compared to higher-paid peers like Duncan Robinson—whom Hauser outperforms. Amid a summer of upheaval, his retention underscores Boston's commitment to building around him as a foundational asset.