It’ll be interesting to see which identity is able to better sustain success once the postseason is here. Throw in the possibility of a rematch in the NBA Finals, and how either team adjusts away from its identity could be the difference between winning it all or being disappointed by season’s end.

This early January matchup could very easily be a preview for what is to come in June. With the Boston Celtics and the OKC Thunder having the top-two odds when it comes to winning the NBA Finals, this game will lay the groundwork for what is to come.

The Thunder put Thursday night's showdown with the Cavs out of reach by halftime and led by as many as 42 points in a 134-114 home win Thursday night.

A lot can change in a week. And in just a week's time, the Oklahoma City Thunder were able to gain ground in their argument as being the NBA's best team.