Although it does not change the image, would it not allow better manipulation? After all, if i change 1 bit in a 14 bit image that is equal to 3 bits in a 16 bit image-that's 4x more range, 4x more shades, 4x more tonal choices. Although we've come a long way from 8 bit images and the posterization that goes along with them, there is still the final arbiter, the print. Yes, I realize that you cannot see a 16 bit image in its full glory on a 10 or 14 bit IPS display panel, but the goal is the print.
Certainly, if you are only editing for sRGB and web display, there is no need (well, maybe if your sensor cant do reds well and the added bit depth prevents the garish-ness).
So the added bit depth is just a bigger sandbox for you to play in when you munge your raws.