The NBA-ABA merger in 1976 paved the way for 48 NBA champions to be crowned since then, with 17 different teams winning the title. The recent 2023-2024 season saw the Boston Celtics emerge as champions. The Oklahoma City Thunder finished the season with 68 wins, boasting a 12.9 average point differential, the highest in NBA history. This achievement surpassed the legendary 1971-72 Lakers’ mark and puts the Thunder in elite company with teams like the Bulls, Warriors, and Celtics who went on to win championships after similar dominant regular seasons.
Historically, teams with high point differentials have a strong correlation with postseason success, with 14 out of the top 23 teams in NBA history by point differential ultimately winning the title. The Thunder’s impressive regular season performance and statistical milestones have set them up as a strong contender for the championship this year. By breaking records and outscoring opponents by a significant margin, the Thunder have placed themselves in a favorable position heading into the playoffs. The success rate of teams with similar regular-season dominance bodes well for the Thunder’s chances of lifting the championship trophy this season.
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