2. San Antonio Spurs
Just the championship pedigree would be intimidating enough, but as the Cavaliers found out on January 14, the Spurs are virtually unbeatable on their own court. The Cavs gained some revenge a few weeks later, but San Antonio was without the services of Tim Duncan, which puts a huge asterisk on the victory.
In that first game, Cleveland jumped out to a huge first quarter lead, but was unable to maintain consistency and then faded in the fourth quarter. Unlocking that consistency key could mean that they’re capable of besting the Spurs
San Antonio got bounced in the first round during last year’s postseason, so they’re definitely motivated to recapture a title in what could be Duncan’s final season. The Spurs’ biggest roadblock is in their own conference with Golden State, so if that potential conference finals takes shape, the Cavaliers might benefit in some form by getting a team that’s unable to sustain its effort.
Next: Golden State Warriors
