The Golden State Warriors' 2015-16 season serves as a stark reminder of the importance of championships in the NBA, despite their record-setting 73 wins. Winning a title provides historical validation, echoing a team's assertion of superiority for that season. However, the Warriors' failure to clinch the championship devalued their unprecedented achievement in the eyes of many. Looking ahead, the Oklahoma City Thunder are on the brink of a similar milestone, with a current record of 64-12, potentially becoming only the third team to win 70 games. Though they face a challenging schedule ahead, the Thunder's depth and strategic player management could allow them to prioritize their championship aspirations over record-breaking wins.

The Thunder's ability to rest players while still securing victories sets them apart from the Warriors, who had heavily relied on their stars in their pursuit of history. With their focus on long-term success, this younger team is less susceptible to the scrutiny faced by the Warriors. Ultimately, the Thunder’s pursuit is not just about wins in the regular season; it’s about collecting championships, emphasizing durability, and sustaining their momentum into the playoffs.