5 Deepest Teams In The NBA For 2026-27

5. Houston Rockets

The Houston Rockets boast a vast array of players on their bench, each bringing a unique skill set to the table. With Fred VanVleet, Amen Thompson, Kevin Durant, Jabari Smith Jr., and Alperen Sengun starting, the team can still rely on Reed Sheppard, Tari Eason, Marcus Smart, Bogdan Bogdanovic, Steven Adams, and Clint Capela from the bench.

Sheppard's scoring ability alongside Eason's energy and Smart and Bogdanovic's veteran play allow for a stable second unit, capable of handling injuries, rest, and tough playoff series. While not every combination works seamlessly together, the Rockets' depth provides them with the flexibility to adapt to various opponents.

4. Atlanta Hawks

The Atlanta Hawks have quietly developed one of the most diverse perimeter rotations in the league, particularly with the addition of more defensive players. Starting with CJ McCollum, Nickeil Alexander-Walker, Dyson Daniels, Jalen Johnson, and Onyeka Okongwu, the Hawks also have Luguentz Dort, Aaron Wiggins, and Kingston Flemings on the bench.

Dort's experience guarding the best perimeter players makes him an ideal backup, while McCollum, Johnson, and other scorers provide offensive support. Wiggins, a versatile wing player, can take open shots without needing the entire offense, and Flemings, a rookie draft pick, offers growth potential and offensive contributions. The frontcourt is also deep, with Jock Landale, Asa Newell, and Mouhamed Gueye providing different options for Quin Snyder's coaching decisions. The Hawks' bench averaged 36.6 points per game last season, demonstrating their offensive strength.

3. Oklahoma City Thunder

Despite losing three rotation players, the Oklahoma City Thunder maintain one of the deepest benches in basketball. Ajay Mitchell, Isaiah Joe, and Aaron Wiggins are no longer part of the team, but they still have Ajay Mitchell, Alex Caruso, Jared McCain, Nikola Topic, Kenrich Williams, and Jaylin Williams on the bench. Mitchell's ability to win Sixth Man of the Year, along with his scoring, rebounding, and playmaking, makes him a valuable bench player.

The Thunder also have Caruso, McCain, and several other players who can score, allowing Mitchell to focus on defense and three-point shooting. With Mitchell's six-minute-per-game production and the rest of the bench providing additional options, the Thunder have a versatile and resilient second unit.