The Spurs surprised everyone by reaching the Finals last season, only to run into the Knicks and lose. Now San Antonio enters this season carrying real expectations to make a return trip.
That's the trap. Last year's run was built on momentum, depth, and fresh legs. The Spurs have to replicate that magic while facing a full season of adjustments from opponents who now know exactly what they are. Every team they face will have a gameplan designed specifically to stop what worked in the playoffs.
The roster remains competitive. They have the pieces. But going back to the Finals is harder than getting there the first time. Contenders tighten their rotations. Injuries hit different in year two of a repeat push. And the Knicks, or whoever they face in the East, won't be caught off guard again.
San Antonio knows what's coming. They also know returning to the Finals won't happen by accident. This team needs to prove last year wasn't a one-time story. That's the weight they carry into October.