In my January 18 post written at the season's midway point, shortly after Kahwi's return, I wrote:
For the Spurs, their season began last night when Kawhi returned. His return followed the prior return of Splitter and Patty Mills -- and meant that we finally get to see how the Spurs will play with the entire cast in place. I believe Kawhi's absence in the middle of the season last year may have contributed to his freshness in the playoffs last season -- the same may be true this year.