The San Antonio Spurs traded Bruce Bowen and Kurt Thomas to the Milwaukee Bucks for Richard Jefferson.

Fabricio Oberto was also swapped for Detroit's Amir Johnson, who then joined Bowen and Thomas at Milwaukee.

Spurs GM R.C. Buford said he traded for Jefferson's youth and health in addition to his scoring abilities. Jefferson has played every single game in the past two years and has been dealt to a team that has perennially fielded the oldest squads in the NBA for years.

"His age helps us transition our team into a new era," Buford said.

Buford also took time to praise the players that he had to give up in the trade.

"Trades are often difficult and saying 'bye' to Bruce, Fabricio and Kurt is a tough thing to do," he said.

"All three of them were valuable contributors to our success as well as good people. We thank each of them for their dedication, professionalism and willingness to always put team first."