Predrag Drobnjak -- the Sonics' free-agent center -- is on the verge of an agreement with the Los Angeles Clippers for what is believed to be a four-year contract.

Since Drobnjak is a restricted free agent, finalizing financial terms isn't the finish line, though.

The next step is an either-or proposition. Either Drobnjak signs an offer sheet or a sign-and-trade could be created between the two teams. If it comes to signing an offer sheet, Drobnjak must wait 15 days to see if the Sonics will match the terms, thereby retaining him. Under a sign-and-trade agreement, the Sonics would receive some compensation for allowing Drobnjak to join the Clippers immediately.

Sonics general manager Rick Sund hadn't been notified of a finalized agreement when contacted yesterday, and he kept a poker face with regard to the team's intentions.

"His agent, David Bauman, has done a great job keeping us abreast of everything that is being discussed," Sund said. "Peja has indicated maybe he would rather go to a place where he could get more playing time, and we'll have to decide what course is best as we continue to talk to David."

The Sonics have committed $15 million in salary for centers Jerome James, Calvin Booth and Vitaly Potapenko this season. Retaining Drobnjak would add $3 million. That's believed to be the range of the starting salary the Clippers are offering when bonuses are included.

If the teams reach a sign-and-trade arrangement, it would negate the 15-day waiting period. The Sonics are thought to be seeking a second-round pick as compensation from the Clippers since Seattle gave up a second-round pick to acquire Drobnjak from the Washington Wizards in 2001. Bauman has refused comment on negotiation.

If no sign-and-trade is reached, Drobnjak would sign an offer sheet, then wait 15 days to see if the Sonics would match. The clock on that 15 days won't start until the Sonics are delivered a copy of the offer sheet. It can't be faxed.

That means Drobnjak would miss much of training camp, which begins tomorrow for the Sonics and Clippers when players with fewer than four seasons of NBA experience begin practicing.