**Celtics Eye Trade to Escape Luxury Tax Ahead of Season Opener**
The Boston Celtics are still in search of a move that could help them navigate the complexities of the luxury tax as they approach their season opener against the Philadelphia 76ers on October 22. Currently, the team finds itself $4,036,489 over the league’s first luxury tax apron, a situation that has prompted team president Brad Stevens to prioritize financial flexibility this season.
**Trade Options on the Table**
As the Celtics consider their options, guard Anfernee Simons’ expiring $27.7 million salary appeared to be a prime candidate for a trade. However, with Simons still on the roster, Stevens may be forced to explore alternative avenues to reduce payroll. One of the more tradeable contracts that stands out is that of Sam Hauser, a key contributor off the bench.
Hauser’s performance last season, where he averaged 8.5 points per game with shooting splits of .451/.416/1.000, makes him an intriguing option for teams looking to bolster their shooting. The 27-year-old forward played 71 games, starting 19, and showed potential as a reliable off-ball shooter, which could attract interest from other franchises.
**Navigating the Roster Landscape**
In assessing the current roster, it seems that Hauser may be the most likely player to be moved if a deal for Simons does not materialize. Guards Jaylen Brown and Derrick White are seen as integral pieces of the Celtics’ core and are unlikely to be part of any trade discussions. Meanwhile, Payton Pritchard’s contributions also place him ahead of Hauser in terms of trade value.
The intrigue surrounding Hauser is heightened by his recent four-year, $45 million extension, which he signed last summer. This contract is considered manageable and could facilitate a trade, especially for a team in need of shooting depth.
**A Summer of Transactions**
This pursuit of financial prudence comes on the heels of a busy offseason for Stevens. The Celtics made significant roster changes, including the trade of starting center Kristaps Porzingis and guard Jrue Holiday, which brought in stretch four Georges Niang and Simons. Stevens then dealt Niang and a pair of second-round picks to the Utah Jazz for rookie RJ Luis Jr., further reshaping the team’s lineup.
With the departure of reserve center Luke Kornet to the San Antonio Spurs on a three-year, $41 million deal, and the possibility of Al Horford following suit to a Western Conference team, it’s clear that the Celtics are re-evaluating their roster ahead of a season where expectations might not align with a championship push.
As the clock ticks down to the opener, all eyes will be on the Celtics and their ability to make a trade that not only relieves their luxury tax burden but also positions them better for the future. The evolving landscape of the roster will be a key narrative to follow as the Celtics prepare for a new season amid significant transitions.