Clippers’ Charles Smith Signs Multiyear Contract

Forward Charles Smith, the No. 3 pick in the National Basketball Assn. draft, signed a multiyear contract with the Clippers Saturday and is expected to be in camp today, only 2 days behind the rest of the team.

“He is a very important signing for us,” General Manager Elgin Baylor said. “We’re really happy to have him here. One or two days, we can live with that.”

The 6-foot 10-inch Smith, a member of the U.S. Olympic team, was the Big East player of the year as a center at Pittsburgh last season, when he averaged 18.9 points a game. He is expected to switch to his natural position of forward in the NBA.

“I’m ready to start playing in the pro league,” he said. “I’m ready to get into camp.”

Smith’s signing, details of which were not released, leaves Danny Manning, the No. 1 choice in the draft, as the only holdout. The Clippers will open exhibition play against Sacramento Friday at Stockton.