Lineup Combinations and Net Rating
Lineup Combinations and Net Rating
Five-man lineup analytics reveal which player combinations perform best together. Net rating measures lineup effectiveness by combining offensive and defensive performance.
Net Rating Formula
Net Rating = Offensive Rating - Defensive Rating
Measures point differential per 100 possessions. Positive net rating indicates lineup outscores opponents; negative indicates lineup is outscored.
Lineup Performance Metrics
- Offensive Rating: Points scored per 100 possessions
- Defensive Rating: Points allowed per 100 possessions
- Net Rating: Point differential per 100 possessions
- Minutes Played: Sample size for reliability
- Plus/Minus: Raw point differential
Most-Used Lineups
Teams typically have 1-2 lineups playing 300+ minutes per season. These combinations establish team identity and chemistry.
Optimal Lineup Identification
Balancing net rating with sample size identifies truly effective lineups vs small-sample outliers. Minimum 50-100 possessions recommended for reliability.
Lineup Chemistry and Fit
Effective lineups typically feature:
- Spacing (multiple shooters)
- Playmaking distribution
- Defensive versatility
- Rebounding coverage
- Complementary skill sets
Staggering Stars
Strategic substitution patterns ensure at least one star on court at all times, maximizing offensive firepower throughout game.
Closing Lineups
Fourth quarter clutch lineups often differ from starting lineups, prioritizing defense, shooting, and clutch performance over regular rotation patterns.