In a poignant and emotional update that’s rocking the Boston Celtics community, head coach Joe Mazzulla has confirmed that veteran forward Sam Hauser will depart the team after the conclusion of the 2025-2026 NBA season. The announcement, shared during a recent team meeting and echoed in Mazzulla’s post-practice comments, carried a heartfelt message that has fans everywhere feeling the weight: “We will miss you a lot.”

Hauser, the sharpshooting sniper who’s become a beloved figure in Boston since joining the Celtics in 2021, has carved out a significant role as one of the league’s most reliable three-point specialists off the bench. His impending exit—likely via free agency or a potential mid-season trade—comes amid the Celtics’ ongoing roster transition following major offseason moves and the continued absence of superstar Jayson Tatum due to his Achilles recovery.

Mazzulla, who’s guided the team through a challenging yet surprisingly competitive campaign, didn’t hide his admiration or sorrow when addressing Hauser’s future. “Sam’s been the epitome of what it means to be a Celtic—selfless, tough, and always ready to knock down the big shot,” Mazzulla said. “His shooting has opened up so much for our offense, and his character has lifted everyone around him. We will miss you a lot, Sam. You’ve given this group everything, and we’re going to make the most of every remaining moment together.”

The news arrives at a pivotal juncture for Boston. Currently sitting with a strong record despite the departures of key pieces like Jrue Holiday, Kristaps Porziņģis, and Al Horford in prior offseasons, the Celtics have leaned heavily on depth players like Hauser to maintain their identity as a high-volume, three-point shooting juggernaut. Hauser’s career-high efficiency from deep—often hovering above 40%—has been crucial in spacing the floor for Jaylen Brown, Derrick White, and the young core stepping up in Tatum’s absence.

Fans have flooded social media with tributes since the confirmation surfaced. One longtime supporter posted, “Shooter has been automatic for years. The way he celebrates with the bench, the clutch threes in big games—irreplaceable. Gonna be tough seeing him in another jersey.” Hauser’s journey from undrafted free agent to rotation staple embodies the grit and opportunity Boston prides itself on, making his potential goodbye even more bittersweet.

The departure ties directly into the Celtics’ financial and strategic realities. With the team deep in luxury tax territory and repeater penalties looming, shedding salary has become a priority for president of basketball operations Brad Stevens. Hauser’s contract, while team-friendly, represents movable money in trade discussions or as an expiring deal in free agency. Reports have linked Boston to big-man pursuits and roster flexibility moves, with Hauser frequently mentioned as a potential outgoing piece to facilitate those shifts.

Despite the business side, the emotional impact can’t be overstated. Hauser has been a locker-room favorite, known for his work ethic, positivity, and willingness to do the dirty work—diving for loose balls, contesting shots, and celebrating teammates’ successes as loudly as his own. In a season where Boston has defied expectations without several stars, his contributions have helped keep the team in Eastern Conference contention.

Teammates have echoed Mazzulla’s sentiments. Brown, often seen hyping Hauser after made threes, shared a simple but powerful message online: “Family forever. Shots gonna fall wherever you go, bro.” White and Payton Pritchard have highlighted how Hauser’s shooting gravity creates easier looks for everyone, underscoring the void his exit will create.

For Mazzulla, losing a player who’s bought fully into the system’s emphasis on connectivity and toughness stings. The coach has built Boston’s identity around collective effort over individual stardom, and Hauser exemplifies that philosophy. “It’s not just about the points,” Mazzulla noted. “It’s the intangibles—how he prepares, how he supports, how he competes every day. Those things don’t show up in the box score, but they win championships.”

Looking ahead, the Celtics face tough decisions. The trade deadline looms as a potential window to reshape the roster, perhaps targeting a defensive big or additional playmaking. If Hauser stays through the season’s end, Boston could benefit from his shooting in a playoff push; if traded earlier, it might bring back assets to bolster the future. Either way, his time in green has left an indelible mark.

Hauser has remained professional and focused amid the speculation. In limited comments, he expressed gratitude: “Boston gave me a chance when no one else did. The fans, the city, the guys in the locker room—it’s been special. Whatever comes next, I’ll always bleed green.”

As the Celtics navigate the second half of the season, the “We will miss you a lot” refrain from Mazzulla captures the sentiment perfectly: appreciation for past contributions, sorrow at the impending farewell, and resolve to honor Hauser’s legacy with strong play down the stretch. Fans know roster turnover is part of the NBA landscape, especially for a tax-paying contender, but losing a player who’s embodied the Celtic way hits differently.

The road ahead includes critical matchups and potential postseason battles, where every made three from Hauser could prove monumental. Win or lose in the standings, his impact on Boston’s culture and success will endure. For now, Celtics Nation savors the remaining games with their sharpshooter, knowing these moments are fleeting—but the memories of his clutch shooting and infectious energy will last forever.