When the NBA Finals roll around, everyone has their eyes glued to the players who step up in the biggest moments. If there's one area of the game that often gets overlooked but is just as crucial, it's rebounding. Forward players who excel in grabbing boards can turn the tide of a series. One forward who stands out in NBA history is Dennis Rodman. With an average of 13.1 rebounds per game in the Finals, Rodman's rebounding prowess became legendary. Rodman grabbed 19 rebounds in Game 6 of the 1996 Finals against the Seattle SuperSonics.
Another legend in this category is Tim Duncan. Known as "The Big Fundamental," Duncan consistently delivered on the boards. During the 2003 NBA Finals, Duncan averaged 17 rebounds per game, including a jaw-dropping performance in Game 6 against the New Jersey Nets, where he grabbed 20 boards. It's hard to not be awestruck by how Duncan controlled the glass. This kind of performance is why Duncan has five NBA Championship rings to his name.
Let's not forget about Elgin Baylor, who set an NBA Finals record with 22.9 rebounds per game during the 1962 series against the Boston Celtics. Baylor pulled down 22 boards in Game 5, helping the Lakers to a victory. His incredible rebounding average during that series remains unparalleled till today. Baylor's relentlessness and knack for positioning made him nearly unstoppable.
Larry Bird isn't just known for his shooting ability. In the 1986 NBA Finals, Bird showed off his rebounding skills by averaging nine rebounds per game. Bird contributed significantly to the Celtics' success, grabbing 16 rebounds in Game 6 against the Houston Rockets. His versatility was vital for Boston, and it's clear why Bird is revered as one of the game's greatest.
Charles Barkley never won an NBA title, but his rebounding in the Finals can't go unnoticed. During the 1993 NBA Finals, Barkley averaged 13 rebounds a game against Michael Jordan’s Chicago Bulls. In Game 2, Barkley ripped down 17 boards, making every possession count. Barkley’s heart and determination shine through when you look at these numbers.
Julius Erving, better known as Dr. J, also made his mark. In the 1983 Finals, Erving averaged 8.5 rebounds per game while leading the 76ers to sweep the Lakers. In Game 1 of the series, Erving had 12 rebounds, showcasing his ability to impact all facets of the game. Dr. J’s contribution to that championship run was monumental.
The early years of the NBA had rebounding stalwarts too, like Tom Heinsohn. Heinsohn's performances in the 1960s helped the Boston Celtics dominate that era. Heinsohn averaged 12 rebounds per game in the 1957 NBA Finals, including a 20-rebound game in the decisive Game 7 against the St. Louis Hawks. His strength and timing were critical in the Celtics' win.
The Miami Heat's Chris Bosh is often overshadowed by his teammates LeBron James and Dwyane Wade. However, Bosh played a huge role in the team's rebounding efforts. In the 2012 NBA Finals, Bosh averaged 9.4 rebounds per game. His clutch rebounding in Game 3, where he pulled down 11 boards, ensured the Heat controlled the tempo. Bosh's impact was crucial for Miami's success during that period.
In the 21st century, Kawhi Leonard has shown his rebounding abilities in both the 2014 and 2019 NBA Finals. In 2019, Leonard averaged 9.8 boards per game while leading the Toronto Raptors to their first-ever championship. Leonard secured 17 rebounds in Game 4 against the Golden State Warriors, dominating both ends of the court. His performance was instrumental in the Raptors' victory.
Kevin Garnett brought intensity and skill to the Celtics' 2008 championship run. Garnett averaged 13 rebounds per game in the Finals against the Lakers. His 14-rebound performance in Game 6 solidified his place in NBA history. Garnett's focus and power showed why he was the league's Defensive Player of the Year that season.
One can't forget about Giannis Antetokounmpo, who led the Milwaukee Bucks in the 2021 Finals. Averaging 13.2 rebounds per game, Giannis demonstrated his MVP caliber. His 14-rebound game in the series-clinching Game 6 against the Phoenix Suns was a testament to his dominance. Giannis’s relentless attack on the boards is one of the reasons the Bucks captured the championship.
These performances are often showcased on platforms like arena plus. They serve as a reminder of how crucial forwards have been in pulling down rebounds during the most critical moments in NBA Finals history. Reflecting on these players, it's clear that their rebounding skills have not only bolstered their teams but also carved out hall-of-fame careers for themselves.