While starters grab the headlines, bench players often help shape the final score
When betting on total points in an NBA game, many focus only on the star players. But bench players—those who come off the bench and don’t start—can play a much bigger role in the final score than most realize. Understanding how these players impact totals can give bettors a smarter angle when analyzing a game.
A strong bench can keep the scoring going when the starters rest. Teams like the Boston Celtics or Los Angeles Clippers often get solid production from their second units. This matters because games don’t stop when star players sit. If the bench continues to score, it keeps the pace high and helps the total points rise. On the other hand, a weak bench can slow things down. Missed shots and poor ball movement from backup players can drag a game into a lower-scoring affair.
Injuries also play a role. If a key starter is out, a bench player might step into a larger role and have more chances to score. But whether they take advantage of that chance is another story. Experience, confidence, and the coach’s system all affect how well a bench player performs when given more minutes.
The tempo of the game is another factor. Coaches with fast-paced systems rely more on their bench because they need to keep players fresh. This often leads to more possessions, which increases the total number of shots—and points.
Lastly, blowouts can also turn the game over to bench players earlier than expected. In those cases, if the backups keep scoring against weaker competition or slack defenses, it can unexpectedly push the total over.
