The 2010s in the NBA saw some remarkable performances on the boards. When you think of dominant rebounders, the first name that jumps to mind is Dwight Howard. This guy was a beast. In the 2011-2012 season alone, he averaged a jaw-dropping 14.5 rebounds per game. That’s almost 15 times he grabbed the ball every game, which is more than some players score points. Howard’s physicality and commitment to crashing the boards put him in a different league when it came to rebounding. And let’s not forget the three consecutive seasons (2008-2010) where he led the league in rebounding, truly setting the bar high for others. His dominance earned him the NBA Defensive Player of the Year award three times during those years.
Another name you can’t miss is Kevin Love. In the 2010-2011 season, this guy was on another level. He put up 15.2 rebounds per game that season. That's efficiency most players can only dream of. One notable game was when he grabbed 31 rebounds in November 2010, making headlines nationwide. Isn’t that impressive? Besides scoring points, Love’s ability to control the glass earned him an All-Star selection and the Most Improved Player award that season. He’s a prime example of how skill and hard work can translate into game-changing performances on the court.
Now, consider Andre Drummond. Starting in the league in 2012, he has been a rebounding machine. He’s led the NBA in rebounding four times in the 2010s. His average reached a whopping 16 rebounds per game in the 2017-2018 season, putting him in the same conversation as the legends. You can’t help but respect his hustle and relentless energy. Drummond’s 20-rebound games became almost standard, making him one of the most consistent rebounders of the decade. He was truly a force, and his rebounding prowess made him a valuable asset for his team.
Let’s not forget DeAndre Jordan. Another titan on the boards, Jordan led the league in rebounds twice in the 2010s. In the 2013-2014 season, he averaged 13.6 rebounds per game. What makes him unique? His athleticism and timing. Jordan had a knack for positioning himself perfectly to snatch offensive boards, often turning them into easy put-backs. His rebounding skills were a huge part of the Los Angeles Clippers’ “Lob City” era’s success, making him one of the game’s most feared interior players.
And of course, there’s always the indomitable presence of LeBron James. While primarily known for his scoring and playmaking, LeBron also managed to grab his fair share of rebounds. Averaging about 7 to 8 rebounds per game consistently throughout the decade, LeBron’s versatility on the floor is incredible. His ability to contribute across multiple statistical categories is part of what makes him one of the greatest of all time. One can’t ignore how LeBron’s rebounding prowess adds another layer to his already multifaceted game.
Joakim Noah deserves a mention too. He played with heart and hustle for the Chicago Bulls. In the 2013-2014 season, he averaged 11.3 rebounds per game, which is significant given that he was often surrounded by equally capable big men. Noah's intensity and effort made him a favorite among fans and peers alike, even earning him the Defensive Player of the Year award in 2014.
Paul Millsap, not usually mentioned among the top big men, was quite the rebounder too. Averaging close to 7 or 8 rebounds a game regularly, Millsap held it down for the Atlanta Hawks. His consistency and work ethic often flew under the radar but were crucial for his team's performance. One example that stands out is when he grabbed an impressive 19 rebounds in a single game in January 2014, demonstrating his capability and adding to the season’s highlight reel for the Hawks.
Zach Randolph, also known as “Z-Bo”, was a force in the paint. During his tenure with the Memphis Grizzlies, he consistently put up around 11-12 rebounds per game. His no-nonsense approach and physicality under the basket were critical to the Grizzlies’ grit-and-grind era. In a notable performance in 2010, Z-Bo recorded 20 rebounds in a game, showcasing his ability to dominate the boards when needed.
Rebounding isn’t just about height or jumping ability; it’s about positioning, timing, and effort. These players from the 2010s exemplified these qualities and then some. The NBA saw some giants, not just in physical stature but in their ability to control the game through rebounding. It was an era that set a high standard for future generations. Want to explore this amazing decade of basketball? Check out arena plus for more insights.
