Back then totals would routinely be in the 180s (East Conf mostly). A game like ATL-CHI would often have a total around 178. A very large and rare total would be in the 220s (Don Nelson with zero defense in Warrior games). Average total would be like 198
Today, it is very rare for a game to be under 200. Average game around 213 it seems. Multiple games a night in the 220s.
Obvious answer is more fouls, more offense, more star players, less defense. The same was still true 5-6 years ago as well. Totals are 15+ points higher today. Crazy to think it's that much different in such a short a mount of time.
Anyone else notice this that has some insight