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 said he could come back, even after missing 10 games with a suspension for violating the terms of his alcohol rehab aftercare pact.
Billy Hunter, the head of the National Basketball Players’ Association, said Baker’s contract is guaranteed and the union will 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.”
The matter is likely to wind up in arbitration.
Baker was suspended indefinitely on Jan. 23 for violating a testing program he agreed to last season when he left the team to check into rehab. He missed his 10th consecutive game on Thursday night, triggering a clause in the agreement that gives the Celtics control over his future.
Boston could attempt to terminate his contract on Wednesday unless another team claims him–an exceedingly slim possibility. They could also allow him to languish on the suspended list–without pay–indefinitely.
Aaron Goodwin, Baker’s agent, said his client has been ready to return and is 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.
Bryant likes Lakers, but . . .
Kobe Bryant said repeatedly Friday that he wants to be a Laker “for life,” though he still plans to opt out of his contract and become a free agent this summer.
Responding to a report that he has already made it clear to the Lakers organization that he has decided to leave, Bryant said the story was untrue.
“I want to be a Laker for the rest of my life. That hasn’t changed,” said Bryant, who has been with Los Angeles throughout his seven-year NBA career.
He said he wants to opt out of his contract to experience what it would be like to be courted as a free agent, though he said–as he has throughout the season–his first choice is to stay.
“It’s just about exploring options,” Bryant said. “That doesn’t mean I want to go somewhere else.”
