After their disappointing first round playoff elimination versus the Dallas Mavericks everything suggested that the Spurs would try to acquire at least one more offensive weapon during the off-season. Even though they have proven in the past that they are indeed a superb defensive team under Greg Popovich, the Spurs often lacked consistent scoring on the offensive end of the floor. Therefore, it was no surprise that San Antonio could not continue to compete in the Western Conference when All-Star Manu Ginobili had to call it a season due to injuries in April.

Just a few hours before this year’s NBA draft the Spurs were able to address this issue when they announced a three way trade that brings Richar Jefferson to San Antonio. More specifically, the Spurs are sending Bruce Bowen and Kurt Thomas to the Bucks for Jefferson as well as Fabricio Oberto to Detroit. In order to make the deal work Milwaukee will receive Amir Johnson from the Pistons. Given the fact that the Bucks made the trade out of desperation to cut their payroll and resign Sessions and Villanueva, they will most likely waive Bowen right away. Similarly, the Pistons who already have tremendous cap space this summer will further improve their free agency position as a buyer by letting Oberto walk.

Without any doubts, the San Antonio Spurs are the primary beneficiary of this deal as they basically get forward Richard Jefferson for free. Jefferson who averaged 19.7 points, 4.6 rebounds and 2.4 assists last season will add more scoring to the Spurs’ roster and fits nicely into Popovich’s team defense due to his athleticism. Moreover, San Antonio might re-sign Bowen and Oberto once they are waived. In addition to getting back Bowen’s defensive abilities and locker room presence they would most likely have to pay less salary than before.

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