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

The Celtics requested waivers on Baker 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 still could come back, even after missing 10 games because of a suspension for violating the terms of his alcohol rehab 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.”

The matter is likely to wind up in arbitration.

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 missed his 10th consecutive game Thursday night, triggering a clause in the agreement that gives the Celtics control over his future.

Boston could attempt to terminate his contract Wednesday morning unless another team claims him — a 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.

Celtics owner Wyc Grousbeck declined comment. The team announced the move in a statement posted on its Web site 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 a player on the free-agent market, but it could keep them out of luxury-tax range.

Baker missed two months and the playoffs last year after he checked into a Connecticut rehab center. He agreed at the time to a follow-up program this season that would involve frequent testing.

But Baker failed to comply with the terms of the agreement at least three times before being suspended indefinitely last month. The agreement dictated that only the doctor agreed to by both sides could determine when he’s ready to return; after the suspension reached 10 games, that authority would transfer to the team.

In a statement issued late Thursday, Baker said he had done everything required of him to remain in compliance with his program and awaited clearance to play again.