Celtics request waivers on Baker

"By league rule, the waiver process takes 48 business hours," said senior director of communications Bill Bonsiewicz. "Because of the weekend and national holiday on Monday, the waiver period will not expire until 10 a.m. (et) on Wednesday, February 18th. Until the waiver process runs its course, the team will refrain from further comment on this matter."

Baker missed Thursday’s game against the Chicago Bulls. It marked his 10th consecutive absence due to suspension, opening the door for the club to terminate his contract.

Baker, suspended indefinitely on January 23 for failing to comply with his aftercare program stemming from alcohol abuse, has $35 million and 2 1/2 years remaining on his deal.

His contract with the Celtics stipulated that if he did not return within 10 games, the team had the right to end the deal.

Baker was suspended for three games earlier in the season for failing to go to his treatments. He left the team last season to address personal issues, which included the alcohol-related problems.

Baker averaged 11.3 points and 5.7 rebounds in 37 games this year for Boston.