Clippers reach out to free agent Tayshaun Prince

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The Clippers have reached out to free agent Tayshaun Prince to gauge his interest in playing for them this season, a source said Wednesday afternoon.

Prince, a 6-foot-9 forward who has played all nine of his NBA seasons with the Detroit Pistons, fits the need the Clippers have for a veteran, quality small forward.

He averaged 14.1 points last season on a declining Pistons team. Prince is known as an outstanding defender who can guard small forwards and shooting guards. He has made 36.8% of his three-pointers over his career, 46.4% of his field goals.

Prince, 31, made $11.1 million last season and may command a hefty salary.

But the Clippers have the money to spend.

Their payroll is $45 million, $13 million below the projected $58 million salary cap.

Prince also is a Los Angeles native, having attended Dominguez High School.

Teams were allowed to start talking to players’ representatives on Wednesday about contracts for free agents but cannot officially make verbal or written agreements until the free agency period and training camps open on Dec. 9.

The Clippers also have interest in talking to Dallas Mavericks small forward Caron Butler.

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NBA free agency frenzy will be caused more by time than talent.

-- Broderick Turner