The Knicks, with hopes of improving their roster to make a playoff run, are watching the Vin Baker story with interest.

The Boston Celtics placed Baker on waivers yesterday, one day after voiding his contract. Baker, a 6-foot-11 veteran of 11 N.B.A. seasons, was averaging 11.3 points and 5.7 rebounds in 37 games for the Celtics this season.

The Knicks have not had any conversations with Baker or his agent, Aaron Goodwin, a team official said, and they will wait until the waiver process is completed at 10 a.m. Wednesday. If a team claims Baker before that, it will be liable for the remaining $6 million he is owed for this season, in addition to the $30.375 million due over the next two seasons. Billy Hunter, the head of the players association, said that Baker's contract was guaranteed and that the union would file a grievance to fight the Celtics' move.