It's all about opening the checkbook. Whether talking about the Celtics' needs for next season or his charity golf tournament, which kicks off tonight with a dinner and party at Mohegan Sun, Antoine Walker knows money matters. When asked what the Celtics' ownership must do during free agency, Walker said, ''They're going to have to open their checkbooks. That's the bottom line.''

Walker hopes the spending includes an extension for himself and a deal worth more than the veteran minimum for Walter McCarty. But Walker has resolved not to let contract issues or trade rumors become distractions this offseason.

A few weeks ago, Walker was the subject of rampant trade rumors coming out of New York. A deal with the Knicks was reportedly under consideration, though director of basketball operations Danny Ainge said, ''Nothing is close to happening with Antoine.'' Then, Ainge aggressively pursued All-Star power forward Karl Malone at the start of the free agency period.

Earlier in his career, Walker would have been bothered by such speculation and actions. But yesterday after finishing a round at the Fox Hopyard Golf Course in East Haddam, Conn., where the charity tournament to benefit inner-city kids through the 8 Foundation will take place, Walker calmly answered questions about his future.

''Obviously, it's not great to have your name mentioned in rumors and trade calls,'' said Walker. ''But I'm at the point in my career right now where it goes in one ear and out the other. I've got two years left on my deal and I plan on being in Boston. If it doesn't happen, it doesn't happen. I like Boston. I love my teammates. The city of Boston has been great to me, and honestly, it'd be very difficult for me to leave Boston. Obviously, for my name to be out there, they may think somebody is a better fit. I'll roll with the punches.

''My agent [Mike Higgins] spoke to the team. As of right now, I'm supposed to be a Celtic, but obviously we'll see. On [Wednesday], I'm asking for my extension and hopefully I can get it. I'm trying to be in Boston for a long time. If I don't get it, I'll move on.