The Clippers made qualifying offers Wednesday to forwards Elton Brand and Lamar Odom, and to guards Corey Maggette and Andre Miller.

The formality, in accordance with the NBA's collective-bargaining agreement, ensures that the Clippers can match any offers the four players receive from other NBA teams.

All four Clippers are restricted free agents and can begin negotiations with other teams July 1. Offer sheets can be signed after July 16.

"These players are an important part of our team,'' Clippers vice president Elgin Baylor said. "The step we took today is a necessary one in order to begin any discussions on July 1 and to preserve our right to match any outside offer.''