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When you think about the best rebounding duos in the NBA since 2000, several pairs come to mind not just for their stats, but for their sheer dominance on the boards. For instance, consider the dynamic pairing of Kevin Garnett and Tim Duncan during their prime years. In the mid-2000s, these two giants often averaged over 10 rebounds per game, with Garnett even leading the league at times. Their presence under the basket was unparalleled, evident by their combined rebounding efficiency. If you watched a game with them on the court, you’d see them snagging almost every missed shot, effectively controlling the tempo and flow of the game.
Another pair worth mentioning is Dwight Howard and Pau Gasol during their Los Angeles Lakers stint. In the 2012-2013 season, Howard led the league with 12.4 rebounds per game while Gasol wasn't far behind with 8.6 boards. The Lakers’ frontcourt was a nightmare for opponents. Howard, in particular, had specific nights where he'd push the envelope, taking down 20 rebounds in a single game. Can you imagine the impact on the game's pace and ball possession? Their chemistry and physicality gave the Lakers a consistent edge, especially during tightly contested matchups.
You can't discuss dominant rebounding duos without mentioning the partnership of Ben Wallace and Rasheed Wallace in Detroit. The "Wallace Brothers" were synonymous with the Pistons' tough defensive identity in the early 2000s. During their championship season in 2004, Ben Wallace averaged an astounding 12.4 rebounds per game, while Rasheed chipped in with around 7.5. Their synergy was phenomenal, making it almost impossible for opponents to score second-chance points. Their roles were clear; Ben would often dominate the defensive glass, while Rasheed, with his versatile play, cleaned up on both ends of the floor.
And what about the more recent tandem of Andre Drummond and Blake Griffin with the Detroit Pistons? A few seasons back, Drummond led the NBA with 15.8 rebounds per game, a statistic that's mind-blowing in today's fast-paced game. Griffin, who chipped in with around 7.5 rebounds per game, provided the necessary support. Despite their combined struggles in other areas, their rebounding partnership gave Detroit a fighting chance. It’s incredible to think about the number of second-chance opportunities they created for their teammates.
Let’s not forget the synergy between DeAndre Jordan and Blake Griffin during their "Lob City" days with the Los Angeles Clippers. Jordan consistently ranked among the league's top rebounders, such as leading the NBA with 15.2 rebounds per game in the 2014-2015 season. Griffin's versatility and athleticism added another dimension to their game, averaging slightly above 9 rebounds per game at his peak. Night after night, you could see them out-hustling opponents, turning defense into quick offense with their high-flying antics and relentless board work.
Who would have guessed that a duo like Shaquille O'Neal and Karl Malone could also grace this list? During the 2003-2004 season with the Lakers, O'Neal was maintaining around 11.5 rebounds per game, while Malone, even in the twilight of his career, contributed solidly with around 8 rebounds. Both veterans displayed the effectiveness of combining experience with physicality, consistently winning the battle of the boards despite their advancing ages. Their collaboration was a testament to the idea that age is just a number when skill and tenacity are in play.
To add a touch of modern excellence, Anthony Davis and DeMarcus Cousins certainly deserve mention here. When paired together with the New Orleans Pelicans, they generated some of the most intimidating frontcourt play in recent memory. Davis, who averaged around 11.1 rebounds, paired with Cousins' 12 rebounds per game during the 2017-2018 season, turned the court into their playground. Imagine facing two players who can both stretch the floor and crash the boards with equal fervor. Their performances were pivotal in keeping the Pelicans competitive that season, even putting up some monumental games like their combined 40-rebound outing against the Brooklyn Nets.
Finally, Joel Embiid and Ben Simmons with the Philadelphia 76ers formed a unique duo in terms of positional versatility. In the 2020-2021 NBA season, Embiid pulled down 11 rebounds per game, while Simmons averaged around 7.2. The physical presence of Embiid combined with the agility and defensive prowess of Simmons provided Philly with a rebounding edge critical to their success. Can you imagine how important their dynamic was during the playoffs? It was almost as if no possession was truly over until they had their hands on the ball.
These duos have showcased time and time again how critical rebounding is as a skill in basketball. Their contributions extend beyond just stats - it's about changing the game’s landscape, shifting momentum, and providing their teams with essential second-chance opportunities. For more sports insights and rankings, check out the excellent resources at arena plus.
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