The Boston Celtics are making seismic waves in the NBA this offseason, executing a masterful salary cap overhaul under the guidance of President of Basketball Operations Brad Stevens. By shedding a colossal amount of high-salary contracts, the Celtics have not only slipped below the NBA’s daunting second apron of the luxury tax but are now a mere $9.4 million away from escaping the first apron entirely. This aggressive financial maneuvering has positioned Boston on the cusp of exiting the luxury tax altogether, a feat that could reshape their roster strategy for the 2025-26 season and beyond.
To achieve the final push under the luxury tax, the Celtics are reportedly considering a blockbuster move: trading one of their most valuable bench players, sharpshooter Sam Hauser. Known for his lethal three-point shooting, Hauser is a rare gem in today’s NBA—a high-impact player on a remarkably team-friendly contract. At less than $13 million per year, his deal is a steal for a player who consistently delivers from beyond the arc, making him one of the league’s most cost-effective snipers
However, with the Celtics eyeing financial flexibility for the 2026-27 season—when superstar Jayson Tatum is expected to return from a devastating torn Achilles injury—Hauser’s bargain contract could become trade bait. The goal? Clear enough cap space to reset the luxury tax clock and gear up for another championship run with a fully healthy Tatum leading the charge.
Enter the Los Angeles Lakers, who are reportedly salivating at the prospect of acquiring Hauser. The Lakers, perennial contenders with LeBron James and Luka Dončić anchoring their lineup, are desperate for reliable shooting off the bench. Hauser’s ability to stretch the floor with his deadly three-point accuracy would make him a seamless fit in LA, where he’d feast on open looks created by the playmaking wizardry of James and Dončić. Sources suggest Hauser could see even more wide-open shots in LA than he currently does in Boston’s crowded rotation.
For the Lakers, landing Hauser would be a coup, adding a versatile weapon to their arsenal without breaking the bank. His $45 million contract over the life of the deal is a bargain for a player of his caliber, making him an attractive target for a team looking to maximize value while chasing a title.
For Celtics fans and Brad Stevens, the idea of trading Hauser—especially to a historic rival like the Lakers—is a tough pill to swallow. Hauser has become a fan favorite in Boston, not just for his sharpshooting but for his hustle and fit within the team’s selfless, championship-caliber culture. Stevens would likely demand a significant overpay from LA to even consider sending Hauser west, as parting with such a valuable asset to a direct competitor could haunt Boston in future playoff battles.
The Hauser trade speculation isn’t the only storyline swirling around Boston. Questions linger about why veteran big man Al Horford remains unsigned in free agency, with fans and analysts wondering if the Celtics are planning a bigger roster shakeup. Additionally, reports have surfaced of a near altercation involving head coach Joe Mazzulla, adding an extra layer of intrigue to an already eventful offseason.
If there was ever a time for the Celtics to reset their financial slate, the 2025-26 season is it. By getting fully under the luxury tax, Boston could position itself to reload for a championship push in 2026-27, when Tatum is expected to return at full strength. Trading Hauser, while painful, could be the final piece of the puzzle to achieve that goal, setting the stage for another deep playoff run.