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On one hand, only the Lakers and the Celtics were able to celebrate as champs last year.

So as the Lakers get set to open their title defense of the NBA Cup on Friday in San Antonio with virtually the same roster as a year ago, it’s more than fair to wonder what, if anything, these stretch of games means to them.

And, like last year, it doesn’t seem to be too tough to figure out.

“I think that’s the one thing we kind of, last year, we were very motivated. We have the big prize.”

Like last year, the Lakers will have to survive group play to advance to the knockout round stage.