Boston Celtics Lock in Key Players with New Contracts
In a move that signifies their commitment to building a competitive roster, the Boston Celtics have secured the services of Sam Hauser with a four-year, $45 million contract extension. Hauser, a sharpshooter with a career average of over 42% on 3-pointers, initially joined the team immediately after going undrafted out of the University of Virginia in 2021. This extension further cements his role within the organization as a key long-range threat.
Building a Strong Core
Hauser's new deal is only a part of the larger picture for the Celtics. Alongside Hauser, the team has ensured its roster remains formidable by negotiating a supermax extension for their star player Jayson Tatum. Additionally, they have locked in Derrick White on a significant four-year, $125.9 million deal. These moves underscore the Celtics' strategy of investing in a core group of players to maintain their competitive edge in the intensely challenging Eastern Conference.
Financial Considerations
However, the Celtics' aggressive approach to safeguarding their talent does come with substantial financial implications. The team is currently positioned over the second apron line, with salary commitments slated to reach approximately $225 million for the 2025-26 season. These commitments have resulted in the Celtics facing an estimated $210 million luxury tax bill. Such a financial burden highlights the organization’s willingness to spend in order to build a championship-contending team.
Key Retentions and Departures
In a smaller yet significant move, the Celtics have re-signed Xavier Tillman on a minimum contract. Ensuring depth and experience off the bench, Tillman's presence adds to the team’s versatility and defensive capabilities.
However, the Celtics will see some changes in their roster as Oshae Brissett and Svi Mykhailiuk are the only players from last year’s team not expected to return for the upcoming season. This presents an opportunity for other players on the roster to step up and fill the voids left by Brissett and Mykhailiuk.
Future Prospects
Looking ahead, another pivotal player, Kristaps Porzingis, is slated for free agency in 2026. This future milestone will necessitate strategic planning from the Celtics' front office as they aim to balance the books while potentially maintaining the services of the Latvian big man. Their current financial flexibility will be tested as they navigate through this period.
With all these moves, the Boston Celtics have set a clear signal to the league about their ambition and readiness to compete at the highest level. Every contract, whether it's the headline-grabbing extensions or the crucial minimum deals, plays a part in crafting a roster capable of making deep playoff runs in the seasons to come.