Measuring Supporting Cast

“He had more help” is common debate language. Turning it into a number requires a narrow definition and honest limitations.

The drop-off measure

Facts Over Feelings adds the points per game of a player’s four highest-scoring teammates in the regular season, then compares that sum with the same group’s playoff scoring. A larger decline suggests that the star received less scoring support when the games became more demanding.

Supporting-cast drop-off = top-four regular-season PPG − top-four playoff PPG

What the number can show

The measure identifies broad changes in teammate scoring and helps challenge claims based only on reputation. A roster with famous names may still provide less playoff scoring than expected. Conversely, role players can increase their production and reduce the burden on the central star.

What it cannot show

Points alone omit defense, passing, screening, spacing, rebounding, injuries, lineup fit, opponent quality, and minutes. The top four scorers may change because of an injury or trade. A teammate can play valuable defense while scoring less, and an efficient secondary scorer may matter more than a larger raw total.

Why it receives limited weight

The site gives supporting-cast drop-off 15% of the default Peak Season verdict. That is enough to add context but not enough to overwhelm the player’s own production and awards. It should be read as one clue about offensive assistance—not a complete roster-strength ranking.