For about two decades, the Spurs have been a measure of excellence in the NBA, but this year, things might finally be different down in San Antonio. So, even though the Lakers came from behind in the fourth quarter to topple the Spurs and even though LeBron James dazzled the crowd with 42 points, Paul doesn’t believe the win is that impressive because of what the Spurs are this year.

While it still counts as a win in the standings, Paul isn’t ready to say it was a big confidence-building win for the Lakers. Rather, he thinks it’s a game they should expect to win.

“San Antonio has been terrible on defense,” Pierce said. “By no means was this a barometer to where they are, or how high of a level they should be competing because San Antonio has been getting blown out of games lately.”