Boston Celtics confident Irving 'marriage' will still go ahead

Kyrie Irving is "going to get married" to the Boston Celtics on July 1 despite recent speculation over his future, according to Danny Ainge.

Point guard Irving created a stir last week when he downplayed his long-term commitment to the Celtics, raising suggestions he may opt out of his contract at the end of the season and move on.

Irving had announced prior to the campaign that he intended to sign a long-term deal to remain in Boston, who acquired the six-time NBA All-Star via trade with the Cleveland Cavaliers.

Speaking during an appearance on Boston's 98.5 The Sports Hub, president of basketball operations Ainge made clear that, as far as he is concerned, the 26-year-old will show his commitment to the Celtics on the opening day of free agency.

"The way I viewed the situation is that I think a lot of people, because of Kyrie's announcement at the beginning of the year, thought that it was a marriage," Ainge said.

"And I think that it's more like an engagement. And we're going to get married on July 1. I think that engagement is still on, as far as I know.

"In my individual conversations with Kyrie, we're still engaged but we really can't make those vows, sign that contract until July 1."

Irving - who has been linked with a reunion with former Cavs team-mate LeBron James at the Los Angeles Lakers - is averaging 23.8 points and seven assists for the Celtics this season.