If one thing’s for sure in the NBA, it’s that guards who can rebound end up stealing the spotlight every now and then. You have to appreciate the guys who can do it all, especially the ones making waves with their rebounding skills. Let’s dive into some amazing performances by rebounding guards that really got everyone’s attention.
Russell Westbrook stands out whenever you talk about rebounding guards. In fact, let’s rewind to the 2016-2017 season. Westbrook averaged a jaw-dropping 10.7 rebounds per game. That’s not just impressive for a guard, it’s impressive, period. In today’s NBA, a guard chasing double-digit rebounds every night sounds almost mythical, but Westbrook made it a reality, achieving numbers that rivaled even the best forwards and centers in the league.
We can talk about metrics all day, and here’s a fun one: Player Efficiency Rating (PER). Westbrook’s rebounding not only gave his team second-chance points but also boosted his PER, which stood at 30.6 that season. That’s an efficiency many guards can only dream of. If you need a reminder, it’s this mixture of stats and sheer energy that propelled the Oklahoma City Thunder into playoff contention.
Let’s not forget about Magic Johnson. In the 1981-1982 season, Magic put up numbers that would make any coach swoon. Averaging 9.6 rebounds per game, Magic wasn’t just a playmaker; he was controlling the boards. His rebounding prowess became a quintessential part of the Los Angeles Lakers’ game plan. He had that unique ability to grab a defensive rebound and drive the length of the court for a fast-break opportunity. Those Lakers, by the way, won the NBA Championship that year. Coincidence? I think not.
Now, talking about rebounding guards wouldn’t be complete without mentioning Jason Kidd. Kidd had this innate knack for positioning himself perfectly and timing his jumps. In the 2006-2007 season, playing for the Nets, Kidd averaged a notable 8.2 rebounds per game. He wasn’t just padding his stats; those rebounds often turned into quick transition plays that defined Kidd’s playing style and the Nets’ strategy that year. His rebounding, passing, and defensive skills made him one of the most well-rounded guards ever.
In a recent development, let’s look at Josh Hart. In the 2022-2023 season, Hart emerged as a surprise rebounding dynamo for the Portland Trail Blazers. Averaging 8.4 rebounds per game, Hart found himself amongst big men on the leaderboard for rebounds. Though Portland struggled to make an impact in the playoffs, Hart’s rebounding was consistently a highlight, giving his team much-needed second-chance opportunities.
The era of rebounding guards isn’t just a modern phenomenon. Jerry West should certainly be mentioned here. During the 1965-1966 season, West averaged a spectacular 7.9 rebounds per game. Known more for his scoring and clutch performances, West’s rebounding added a layer to his game that made the Lakers a formidable team. Sports Illustrated highlighted one game where West grabbed 12 rebounds against the towering Celtics frontcourt. Immense performances like these showed how multi-dimensional West was as a guard.
But, is it just the elite few who can pull off such tricks? Isaiah Thomas is another name worth talking about. In the late 80s and early 90s, Thomas, despite his 6’1” stature, regularly grabbed around 6 rebounds per game, peaking at 7.2 in the 1986-1987 season. His ability to read the ball and hustle for every rebound became a trait that defined his play. It also exemplified the fierce competitiveness of the Detroit Pistons “Bad Boys” era.
On a different spectrum, we’ve got Rajon Rondo. In the 2011-2012 season, Rondo averaged an incredible 11.7 assists along with 4.8 rebounds per game. Though primarily known for his playmaking, Rondo’s rebounding skills were equally impactful. He was adept at snagging those 50-50 balls, turning defensive stops into offensive opportunities. The Boston Celtics relied heavily on his hustle, which played a pivot role in their multiple playoff runs.
And here’s a mention that may surprise some: Ben Simmons. Sure, his shooting has often been criticized, but in the 2020-2021 season, Simmons averaged 7.2 rebounds per game, showing that modern guards can excel in multiple facets. This Philadelphia 76ers star used his 6’10” frame to his advantage, routinely battling under the boards. His contributions fueled the team’s top spot in the Eastern Conference that year.
If you’re looking for a contemporary example, look no further than Luka Dončić. In the 2021-2022 season, Dončić averaged 9.1 rebounds per game. We’re talking about a guard who is still in his early 20s putting up numbers that many big men would envy. His rebounding talent makes the Dallas Mavericks a perennial threat, constantly keeping plays alive and shifting the momentum in their favor.
So, what makes these performances stand out? Simply put, rebounding guards bring versatility and energy that can drastically alter the game’s flow. They’re the unsung heroes, the key contributors who don’t always get the glamour but are critical to a team’s success. Next time you tune in to a game, keep an eye on the guards crashing the boards—you might just witness history in the making.
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