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Sam Hauser Discusses His First NBA Start
With the Celtics' starting backcourt of Marcus Smart (right ankle sprain) and Jaylen Brown (non-Covid illness) sidelined, Monday's matchup against the Pistons provided an opportunity for Sam Hauser to get the first start of his NBA career.
In Boston's 111-99 win in the Motor City, Hauser registered 15 points, burying 5/9 threes, grabbed six rebounds, and swatted two shots.
Interestingly enough, all of his points came in the first half, but after 24 minutes, he and Derrick White tied for the most in the game, and Hauser earned a plus-14 plus-minus rating, the highest mark in the category at that juncture.
After the Celtics' victory, Hauser discussed the first start of his NBA career.
"It kind of took me by surprise," expressed Hauser. I think I kind of found out about JB late, so I didn't really know anything, and I thought they'd maybe plug someone else in to start, but called my number (and) I was ready for it."
Joe Mazzulla conveyed, "I trust his work ethic, and I trust his mindset."
Hauser's head coach added, "when he's in, our off-ball creativity is there, our after-action is there, and our early-offense spacing is there, and so I thought he would help that."
Further Reading
Nothing More Than a Rumor: The Celtics Should Not and Will Not Trade Jaylen Brown for Kevin Durant
Eastern Conference Rival Reportedly Interested In Swinging Trade For Celtics Sharpshooter
Celtics Reportedly Considering Trade For Local Big Man To Improve Center Depth
A Potential Buyout Target and the Celtics are Reportedly Showing Mutual Interest
