After a four-game winning streak, the Pelicans' reputation was completely different from before.
They were already this badass with Tang but without Davis. Wouldn't they be absolutely unstoppable with both Tang and Davis?
Only now did many people slowly realize just how strong last season's Pelicans had been.
A record like 80 Wins did not feel quite as overwhelming when you were living through it, but looking back, it was truly insane.
And looking again at last year's Playoffs, the Pelicans' Undefeated Championship had never really been in doubt.
The Strongest Team in History, without question.
Davis had mostly recovered from his injury, but to be safe, Stevens still had him rest for another two days to ensure he was one hundred percent healthy.
The Pelicans were riding high right now. There was absolutely no need to take that risk.
However, the Pelicans' challenge came quickly.
Their final opponent in October's brutal schedule: the Spurs.
The Pelicans had looked sluggish in the Opening Game and only found their rhythm in the second game against the Warriors. After that, they put on dominant performances and won game after game.
But after huge wins in their Opening Games, the Lakers and Spurs had steamrolled everyone in their path.
Fans who looked down on the Pelicans simply lacked vision, but the Lakers and Spurs were genuinely strong this season.
Now, the two powerhouses were facing off.
The game drew countless eyes. According to ESPN and TNT statistics, its ratings set a new high for the season.
The game unfolded just as fans had expected, fiercely contested until the final five minutes decided the outcome.
In the end, the Spurs defeated the Pelicans 106-96 and claimed the victory.
Tang Tian put up 40 points, 8 rebounds, and 8 assists for a near triple-double, but