Every NBA season brings a fresh look at which players and teams dominate the boards. You know, rebounding is one of those stats that can shift games and define teams. Think about the days when Dennis Rodman was snagging 18.7 rebounds per game in the 1991-92 season. Today, though, the game has evolved, and so have the players. Let’s zoom in on some of the best rebounding duos in the NBA right now, by team.
You can’t talk rebounding without mentioning Rudy Gobert and Karl-Anthony Towns of the Minnesota Timberwolves. Last season, Gobert averaged 13.1 rebounds per game, while Towns contributed with 8.1. Combined, that’s 21.2 rebounds per game just between the two of them. This is not just statistical padding; it significantly impacts the game’s flow, turning missed shots into second-chance points. Think about it: in a typical game with about 90 possessions per team, owning the boards can directly lead to more scoring opportunities.
The duo of Nikola Jokic and Aaron Gordon on the Denver Nuggets also deserves a shout-out. Jokic alone pulled down an average of 11.8 rebounds per game last season, while Gordon added another 5.9. Their combined 17.7 rebounds per game means Denver often dominates the glass, which is especially crucial when you’re in the heat of playoff contention. You probably remember Game 6 of the Western Conference Finals where Jokic grabbed 14 rebounds, tipping the scale in Denver’s favor. That’s impact right there; it’s like having an extra player on the court.
In Philadelphia, the 76ers’ pair of Joel Embiid and Tobias Harris can be intimidating. With Embiid averaging 10.6 rebounds and Harris pulling in 6.8, that’s a solid 17.4 rebounds per game. Their dominance on the boards often dictates the pace of the game. Last season, they ranked in the top 10 for team rebounds, which partly explains their consistent presence in the Eastern Conference Playoffs. And it’s not just about grabbing rebounds; these stats often translate into tackling offensive boards, securing more scoring chances.
Let’s talk a bit about the Milwaukee Bucks. Giannis Antetokounmpo and Bobby Portis offer a powerful 1-2 punch when it comes to rebounding. Giannis is a beast, averaging 11.4 rebounds, and Portis adds another 7.1. That’s an impressive 18.5 rebounds per game. You remember Giannis’s MVP seasons, right? His dominance on the boards often comes in clutch moments, like in the 2021 NBA Finals, where he averaged 13.2 rebounds per game and clinched the championship with a historic 50-point, 14-rebound performance in Game 6. Every board counts, and these guys are top-notch at securing them.
Don’t overlook the Los Angeles Lakers either. Anthony Davis and LeBron James make an impressive duo in terms of rebounding. In the previous season, Davis averaged 9.9 rebounds, and LeBron, even at age 38, hauled in 8.2 per game. Combined, they grabbed 18.1 rebounds per game. LeBron’s high basketball IQ and Davis’s sheer athleticism make for a fearsome pairing under the hoop. You’ve probably seen their highlight reels where they turn defensive rebounds into fast-break points. It’s hard not to appreciate the efficiency they bring to the table.
Another compelling pair is Deandre Ayton and Mikal Bridges of the Phoenix Suns. Last season, Ayton averaged 10.5 rebounds per game, while Bridges added 4.3, giving them a combined 14.8 rebounds. In games where they’ve both been on the floor, the Suns tend to control the pace and flow. You might remember the 2021 NBA Finals run where Ayton’s rebounding was pivotal in several crucial moments, almost flipping the series in favor of the Suns. That kind of contribution is invaluable.
Even with all these top-tier duos, it’s impossible to ignore the impact of the Chicago Bulls’ Nikola Vucevic and Patrick Williams. Vucevic’s average of 11.0 rebounds per game pairs nicely with Williams’ 4.0. Their combined 15.0 rebounds per game often keep Chicago competitive, even against top-tier teams. I remember a game last season where they combined for over 25 rebounds, swinging the momentum entirely. That’s not just grabbing boards; that’s controlling the game.
If you’re diving deep into the world of NBA rebounding duos, arena plus offers a granular look at stats and player performances. The site is ideal for anyone wanting to keep tabs on how these duos impact their respective teams throughout the season.