Injuries play a significant role in betting as they can drastically affect a team's performance, strategy, and overall chances of winning. Bettors closely monitor injury reports, as the absence of key players can lead to shifts in odds and lines. The impact of an injury may vary depending on the player’s importance to the team, which can influence public perception and betting behavior. Consequently, knowledgeable bettors often leverage injury information to gain an edge, adjusting their bets in response to how a player's health might alter the outcome of a game.