I think it's shortsighted to say that it doesn't matter. Winning a single game against a top 3 team in the conference you want in will bring loads of attention. Timing counts for alot. Prob not a deciding factor but helps perception.
And the only box that really matters is if a team can help the conference get to the playoffs. That's why they want to expand.
Then it's a moot point, the deal is done, and let's move on. That way I don't have to sift through the overwhelming outpouring of optimism that is bearcattalk.com.