Lakers Eye Steady Splash: Exploring the Rumored Trade for 2024 Celtics Sharpshooter Sam Hauser to Boost LA’s Title Push
The Los Angeles Lakers and their star-studded roster are no strangers to bold moves—and today, a tantalizing rumor emerges: they’re reportedly weighing a trade for Sam Hauser, the Boston Celtics’ sharpshooting role player and 2024 NBA champion.
Sam Hauser has quietly become one of the league’s most dependable bench marksmen. Since entering the rotation, he’s maintained an elite shooting touch—posting over 40 percent from three-point range in four consecutive seasons, and most recently delivering 41.6 percent from beyond the arc in 2024–25. His scoring average hovers around 8.5 points per game, backed by efficient shooting splits (45.1 percent FG). At 27, approaching 28 by season’s start, Hauser brings championship pedigree and continuity built through Boston’s recent success.
Three seasons since their last title, the Lakers are forging a new era—pairing LeBron James with Luka Dončić in hopes of reclaiming their place atop the league. Yet a glaring gap remains: elite shooting. Despite upgrades like Marcus Smart and Deandre Ayton, perimeter scoring remains inconsistent.
Enter Sam Hauser: a skilled 3‑and‑D wing who could flourish alongside Dončić and LeBron. Analysts point to his precise shooting and floor-spacing, which would capitalize on the defensive attention often commanded by LA’s stars. His championship experience and efficiency make him particularly attractive—especially since the Lakers still battle offensive inconsistencies despite Dončić’s arrival.
The Celtics, champions in 2024, are navigating a tight offseason. Luxury-tax pressures under the NBA’s second apron loom large, compelling them to consider shedding salary despite recent success. Hauser, on a four-year, $45 million extension, represents a substantial but potentially movable asset if presented with the right offer.
While Boston values his shooting and continuity, financial pragmatism may dictate choices—especially if the right deal enhances long-term flexibility.
Though no official package has surfaced, speculation suggests something like Gabe Vincent heading to Boston, offering backcourt depth. Vincent’s contract and positional fit could align well with salary matching requirements.
Alternatively, broader proposals could emerge—perhaps involving draft capital, other rotation players, or expiring contracts. Boston would likely demand a meaningful return for a reliable role player with a championship track record.
- Spacing for Stars: With Hauser on the floor, LeBron and Dončić would enjoy more breathing room—especially during crunch time when defenses collapse and shot creation becomes tougher.
- Shimmy Offense: He’s not just a “spot-up” shooter; Hauser’s ability to catch-and-shoot in rhythm complements the Lakers’ ball movement.
- Off-Ball Gravity: His shooting stretches opposing defenses, opening lanes for cuts, drives, and creative offensive sets.
- Cheap Asset: On a cost-effective deal, Hauser provides value without sacrificing cap flexibility—especially compared to star-level signings.
- Championship Savvy: His experience could prove invaluable in tight playoff series where composure under pressure counts.
This rumored transaction rewards the Lakers’ vision of pairing superstars with role players who amplify their impact. Adding a high-level shooter like Hauser meshes with that philosophy, optimizing their offensive structure.
