In the modern NBA, the starters grab the headlines—but the true difference-makers often lurk in the second unit.
So when observers ask “Which Teams Have the Strongest Benches in the NBA?”, they’re really asking: which squads possess depth, reliability, and impact beyond the starters? This piece dissects that question with data and context, projecting into the 2025-26 season.
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Setting the scene
Team success in a grueling 82-game schedule (plus postseason) demands more than five great players.
The answer to Which Teams Have the Strongest Benches in the NBA? lies in units that sustain performance when starters rest, plug holes in the rotation, and step up under pressure.
Bench strength encompasses scoring, defense, transitions, momentum swings, and how a team handles adversity.
With that lens, we can spotlight teams whose reserves are genuine assets—not just afterthoughts.
Teams that answer “Which Teams Have the Strongest Benches in the NBA?”
Boston Celtics
At the top of the list when asking Which Teams Have the Strongest Benches in the NBA?, Boston stands out.
Their bench posted a net rating of +12.4 in the 2024-25 season—the best in the league.
That performance means when the starters sub out, the second group doesn’t just hang around—they dominate.
For 2025-26, maintaining that depth will be a key reason why the Celtics remain elite.
Oklahoma City Thunder
If you’re asking Which Teams Have the Strongest Benches in the NBA?, OKC is another prime candidate.
Their bench delivered strong net rating (≈ +6.1) in 2024-25.
According to P Networks, the Thunder’s bench was the top in the league with a net rating of +12.7 and the best defensive rating for reserves.
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With youth, versatility, and role-players ready to fill big minutes, OKC’s depth strengthens their title-contender profile for 2025-26.
Cleveland Cavaliers
Another answer to Which Teams Have the Strongest Benches in the NBA?, Cleveland’s reserves have earned serious attention.
Their second unit led the NBA in made three-pointers off the bench (545) in 2024-25.
They also showed impressive assist numbers and shooting efficiency.
For the upcoming season, their bench depth offers both scoring punch and secondary playmaking — a vital support for a young core.
Why bench strength matters
When the question is Which Teams Have the Strongest Benches in the NBA?, we’re talking about more than just numbers on paper. A strong bench can:
- Maintain or extend leads while starters rest.
- Offer matchup flexibility and defensive coverage in late-game situations.
- Provide scoring surges that shift momentum.
- Allow injury resilience and reduce wear on key players.
In postseason basketball especially, the depth of the bench often differentiates contenders from pretenders.
Teams with elite reserves can sustain performance when their stars are fatigued or limited.
Looking ahead to 2025-26
As we move into the 2025-26 season, the question of Which Teams Have the Strongest Benches in the NBA? will evolve with injuries, trades and role changes.
The teams above are well-positioned, but the margin for error is thin.
A slippage in rotation, or loss of a key reserve, can flip a bench from asset to liability.
