With the NBA trade deadline looming, the rumor mill is heating up - and one name that keeps surfacing in potential Celtics deals is Sam Hauser. The sharpshooting forward, known for his perimeter accuracy and off-ball movement, has reportedly drawn interest from multiple teams.
Among the more intriguing trade ideas floated? A potential swap with the San Antonio Spurs for forward Jeremy Sochan.
The concept, proposed by NBA writer Law Murray, centers on a simple premise: the Spurs need more shooting, and the Celtics could benefit from a versatile, high-energy forward like Sochan. While the hypothetical deal would likely involve some additional draft compensation heading to Boston, the core idea is a one-for-one exchange - Hauser for Sochan.
Let’s break it down.
Why the Spurs Might Make This Move
San Antonio is still in the thick of a rebuild, and while they’ve got a cornerstone in Victor Wembanyama, the supporting cast is still very much in flux. Sochan, a 2022 lottery pick out of Baylor, has shown flashes - especially during his sophomore campaign when he averaged 11.6 points, 3.4 assists, and nearly 30 minutes a night across 74 games. His athleticism, defensive upside, and ability to play multiple positions made him a key part of the Spurs' long-term outlook.
But this season has been a different story. Sochan has struggled to find consistent minutes, averaging just 13.1 per game and contributing 4.2 points and 2.7 rebounds.
A lingering quad injury has kept him out of the last four games, and his role has diminished significantly. Whether it’s a matter of fit, health, or development, the Spurs might be ready to pivot - and adding a player like Hauser could give them something they sorely lack: reliable shooting.
Hauser’s ability to stretch the floor would open up driving lanes for Wembanyama and give the Spurs a much-needed perimeter threat. He’s not just a catch-and-shoot guy either - his movement off screens and quick release make him a constant threat in the half-court. For a team that ranks near the bottom of the league in three-point shooting, that skill set is gold.
What This Would Mean for Boston
From the Celtics' perspective, this would be less about giving up on Hauser and more about adding a different kind of piece for the playoff push. Boston entered the season with financial flexibility in mind, already navigating the departures of Jrue Holiday, Kristaps Porziņģis, and Al Horford. Despite those losses - and with Jayson Tatum still recovering from Achilles surgery - they’ve managed to stay right in the thick of the Eastern Conference race, battling for a top-two seed.
Hauser has been a steady contributor, but with Anfernee Simons already viewed as a short-term rental, the Celtics could be looking to retool the back end of their rotation with more defensive versatility. Sochan brings that in spades.
He’s a switchable forward who can defend multiple positions, push the pace in transition, and provide energy off the bench. While his offensive game is still developing, he fits the mold of an “activity forward” - the kind of player who can make an impact without needing the ball in his hands.
Joe Mazzulla’s system thrives on versatility and effort, and Sochan could thrive in that environment. He’s still just 23 and on an expiring deal, which gives Boston some flexibility moving forward.
If he clicks, he’s a long-term piece. If not, they haven’t mortgaged much to find out.
The Bigger Picture
This isn’t a blockbuster deal by any means - there’s no All-Star changing teams here. But it’s the kind of smart, strategic move that contenders and rebuilders alike look for at the deadline.
For the Spurs, it’s a chance to add a high-level shooter to a young core. For the Celtics, it’s a low-risk swing on a young, high-motor forward who could help them win now and potentially grow into a bigger role down the line.
With the trade deadline just days away, this is one to keep an eye on. Hauser’s name isn’t going away anytime soon - and if Boston decides to shake things up, Jeremy Sochan could be a name to watch in green and white.