Examining the emergence of Boston Celtics sharpshooter Sam Hauser
Sam Hauser can help the Boston Celtics raise Banner 18
Hauser is proving in his second season in the Celtics’ organization that he can play a pivotal role in the success of a team seeking its record 18th title.
He may have scored just five points in the 2022 NBA playoffs, but Stevens knew he had found a diamond in the rough. In early July following the Finals defeat to the Warriors, The Boston Globe’s Adam Himmelsbach reported that Boston had signed Hauser to a new three-year, $6 million contract. Stevens hoped that Hauser would be a crucial contributor to the team’s success, and after Aaron Nesmith was dealt, his role got even larger.
During his breakout campaign in Boston, Hauser scored in double-figures in 15 contests, proving his importance to the C’s spacing in the halfcourt. Many doubted his defense throughout 2022, but Hauser took the fact that opponents were targeting him on the defensive end by heart. As this season has progressed, Hauser’s work while nobody was watching began to pay off. Boston’s No. 30 currently has the third best defensive rating of any rotational player on the roster.
If Hauser is able to provide some level of stability on the defensive end, Joe Mazzulla will have unwavering faith in Hauser. His offense, and ability to find the open space in the halfcourt is makes him so valuable to this squad, but his improved defense is something that has made him a more consistent member to Mazzulla’s rotation.
Whatever the coaching staff has asked of Hauser this season, he has executed. Who knows how much time the former Marquette star is going to receive in the postseason, but it is clear he is going to play a role. Fans, and critics alike wanted someone else, but after many failed experiments with sharp-shooters, Hauser is the person that has finally hit the nail on the head for Boston.
From diving on the floor for loose balls to punishing the opposition from leaving him open on the perimeter, the C’s No. 30 is slowly becoming on of the franchises’ fan favorites. For undrafted players to make it in the league, it takes a whole lot of work from the player and belief from the organization. This is simply the beginning of Hauser’s life in Boston.
There are a multitude of undrafted players around that NBA that are finding success, and the Boston Celtics should be grateful they have one of the good ones. It did not happen immediately.
On and off the court, it is evident Hauser works his tail off, and when many doubted he could make it, the Wisconsin basketball legend knew what has gotten him to here he is today: confidence in oneself.