The Celtics’ annual Fan Fest usually counts as one of the most low-key nights of the year. Players participate in competitions like the Skills Challenge and the 3-point contest. It’s a laid-back atmosphere, and nothing truly important ever seems to happen at the Fan Fest.



Yet Thursday, Kyrie Irving turned the night into a memorable affair when he announced to the TD Garden crowd he intends to re-sign with the Celtics next summer. Though he has given off indications, publicly and privately, that he has found happiness in Boston, the comments were the most definitive on his future so far.



“If you guys will have me back,” Irving told the crowd, “I plan on re-signing here next year.”



Nine months before Irving can officially sign a new contract, the Celtics may have already wrapped up one of July’s most coveted free agents. Irving can opt out of his current contract and sign a five-year deal worth about $189 million...