Over the previous few seasons, Celtics followers yearned for a knockdown shooter, particularly after dealing with guys like Duncan Robinson and Khris Middleton. When the ball left their palms, you simply assumed it was stepping into.
Coming into the season, Sam Hauser was a participant who followers thought could possibly be their sharpshooting three-point specialist.
Hauser is taking pictures 40.3% from three whereas averaging 8.2 factors. Regardless of being generally known as a three-point shooter, Hauser has loved scoring in a number of methods this season and all of it begins along with his off-ball motion.
Hauser has had success reducing backdoor. Whether or not it’s by design or impromptu, being able to learn your defender’s over-aggressiveness to your benefit is essential for a three-point shooter.
Hauser has additionally improved driving close-outs. Much like the backdoor cuts, Hauser has been studying the ground effectively when he will get the ball. Having the fame as a shooter, opponents are inclined to rush to shut him down. After they’re too aggressive on the close-out, Hauser has proven he can drive off of the three-point line to get a basket.
Hauser has discovered new methods to attain as a substitute of simply standing exterior the arc ready for a catch-and-shoot alternative. Nevertheless, his job is to nonetheless flattening threes and area the ground, particularly when Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown are on the courtroom.
Considered one of Hauser’s strengths this season has been his off-ball motion which creates area for his shot.
In opposition to San Antonio, Hauser ran his route the place he got here off of Luke Kornet’s display. Nevertheless, he learn the play and realized Jrue Vacation was driving to the rim, so he modified route and made himself obtainable within the nook.
When he’s on the ground, Hauser is never static. He’s all the time making an attempt to relocate to offer the driving force an choice. At any time when Hauser’s opponent turns their head, Hauser is on the transfer.
Under is a compilation from Tomek Kordylewski, displaying Hauser’s off-ball motion.
With questions relating to the Celtics bench in the beginning of the season, guys like Hauser have stepped up and performed a giant function within the first unit off the bench. It’s a credit score to the offseason work he’s put in and understanding his function that has made him a dependable choice off the bench.
