Hooped Up

In an effort to bolster their frontline, the San Antonio Spurs acquired Kurt Thomas from the Seattle Supersonics for Brent Barry, Francisco Elson and a 2009 first round pick.

The Spurs needed to make a move to keep up with conference rivals Phoenix, Dallas and Los Angeles.

“I think the landscape of the West has put a premium on interior defense,” Spurs general manager R.C. Buford said. “Now with the trades of recent days, that’s only improved.”

At age 35, Thomas provides the Spurs experience and consistency in the paint. His presence should benefit Tim Duncan. Thomas will likely draw the assignment of guarding the opposing team’s best post player.

The Magic need a true power forward, a rebounder and defender, preferably. If they can get a starter — hello, Kurt Thomas — they can move Rashard Lewis back to his natural small forward spot and slide Hedo Turkoglu to shooting guard. Lewis is frustrated and can’t play power forward forever, trying to defender bigger guys inside. Turk can play shooting guard, although he’ll take on quicker players defensively. But the Magic have to find some rebounding help for Dwight Howard.

Orlando Sentinel