Baker Is Waived; Union Vows Fight

The Boston Celtics are on their way to getting rid of Vin Baker.

The Celtics requested waivers on Baker on Friday, a step toward releasing the former All-Star and saving the $36 million they owe him over the next 2 1/2 seasons.

Baker’s representatives insisted he could still come back, even after sitting out 10 games with a suspension for violating the terms of his alcohol rehabilitation aftercare agreement.

Billy Hunter, the head of the National Basketball Players’ Assn., said Baker’s contract was guaranteed and the union would fight any attempts at “subterfuge.”

“Tell the Celtics we’re coming after them,” Hunter said. “We’re immediately putting the Celtics and the league on notice that we’ll file a grievance and do what we have to do. We’re going to go all out on this.”

Baker was suspended indefinitely Jan. 23 for violating a testing program he agreed to last season when he left the team to check into rehab. He sat out his 10th consecutive game Thursday night, triggering a clause in the agreement that gave the Celtics control over his future.

Boston could attempt to terminate his contract Wednesday morning unless another team claims him -- an exceedingly slim possibility. They could also allow him to stay on the suspended list -- without pay -- indefinitely.

Aaron Goodwin, Baker’s agent, said his client had been ready to return and was only waiting for clearance from the doctor who is monitoring his care. “He’ll continue to work out and continue to pass his tests,” Goodwin said.

Celtic owner Wyc Grousbeck declined comment.

The team announced the move in a statement posted on its website that said there would be no further comment until the waiver process was complete.

Saving Baker’s salary still wouldn’t allow the Celtics to be active in the free-agent market, but it could keep them out of luxury-tax range.

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Orlando Magic forward Pat Garrity, who has played in only two games because of a bad right knee, will undergo surgery next week and be sidelined for the rest of the season.

Garrity underwent an arthroscopic procedure in August, but an infection set back the healing process. Another procedure was done in mid-September.

Still experiencing pain, Garrity had surgery on his knee Dec. 1.