"Caron Butler wanted to be a Clipper and the Clippers wanted the free-agent forward to be a part of what they are trying to build.

For Butler and the Clippers, it all worked out when the sides agreed Thursday to a three-year, $24-million deal.

Butler can't sign the contract until Friday, the first day the NBA will allow teams to sign free agents and the day training camp opens.

Butler's agent, Raymond Brothers, said his client plans on being at the Clippers' training camp Friday afternoon in Playa Vista.

"He's a Clipper now," Brothers said in a phone interview. "I think he's a great fit for the Clippers, on and off the court. He's is excited about the opportunity. I think the fans will love him.""