Boston Celtics Pick Up Team Option on Important Depth Piece

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The Boston Celtics have turned the page to the 2024-25 NBA season.

One of the biggest questions surrounding the team this offseason was what they would do about Sam Hauser, a 6-foot-7 forward who has become an important piece of the Celtics' rotation.

President of basketball operations Brad Stevens and the Celtics decided to pick up Hauser's team option and keep him around for next season.

"We want Hauser to be here," Stevens said. "For a long time."

Hauser, who was drafted No. 30 overall by the Celtics in 2021, has seen an increase in his role in each of his three seasons with the organization.

Hauser appeared in 26 games during the 2021-22 season. Hauser played in 80 games and started eight of them in 2022-23 before playing in 79 and starting in 13 in 2023-24.

2023-24 was Hauser's best statistical season. He averaged 22 minutes, nine points, 3.5 rebounds, and one assist per game while shooting 44.6% from the field and 42.4% from 3-point range.

Hauser was a consistent contributor off the bench during Boston's Playoff run that ended with its 18th NBA Championship.

Hauser played in all 19 of the Celtics' Playoff games, averaging 14.9 minutes, 5.4 points, 2.2 rebounds per game while shooting 42.9% from the field and 38% from beyond the arc.

The former Virginia Cavalier has shown the capability to take on a bigger role each season and has the potential to be a difference-maker for the Celtics moving forward.

Hauser will make $2.1 million during the 2024-25 NBA season.