Clippers Brand and Maggette Opt Out

LOS ANGELES (Ticker) -- Los Angeles Clippers forwards Elton Brand and Corey Maggette opted out of their contracts, the team announced Monday night. Brand had a $16.4 million player option and Maggette's was for $8.4 million for next season, which both passed on just prior to Tuesday's free agent deadline. The duo cannot officially sign with another team or re-sign with the Clippers until July 9, when the league's moratorium ends.

"We have been notified by Elton Brand and Corey Maggette of each player's decision to opt out of his respective contract," Los Angeles president Andy Roeser said. "On Monday night, when NBA rules permit, we will be aggressive in contacting them to address our interest in having them remain with the Clippers. "We will also be active in contacting other free agents in whom we have interest."

The Clippers are coming off two straight losing seasons - including an injury-riddled 23-59 finish last campaign - after their first playoff appearance in nine years in 2005-06. Maggette was one of the team's lone bright spots last season, scoring a career-high 22.1 points per game. Brand, on the other hand, played just eight games after suffering an Achilles injury in a preseason workout.