Highest Rebounds Per Game Leaders For Each NBA Franchise In The 21st Century

Rebounding might not always get the spotlight, but it’s one of the most crucial aspects of the game. The players who dominate the boards can control the tempo, give their team extra possessions, and make a huge impact on both ends of the floor. In this article, we’re diving into the best rebounders for each NBA franchise in the 21st century. Whether it’s a big man anchoring the paint or a versatile forward crashing the glass, these players have set the standard for rebounding excellence with their teams. Let’s take a look at who’s been grabbing the most boards since the 2000-01 season.

Minimum requirements: 100 games played

Atlanta Hawks – Clint Capela (11.9 RPG)

Clint Capela has been the Hawks’ go-to guy on the glass since he joined the team in 2020, consistently pulling down 11.9 rebounds per game. Capela’s knack for being in the right place at the right time has been a game-changer for Atlanta, especially during their impressive playoff run in 2020-21, where he led the NBA with 14.3 rebounds per game. His ability to clean up missed shots and protect the rim has provided the Hawks with stability in the paint, making him a key figure in their defensive setup.

Capela’s presence on the boards has been a big reason why the Hawks have been able to stay competitive, giving them the edge in both securing extra possessions and limiting their opponents’ opportunities. His consistency and effort every night make him the best rebounder the Hawks have had in the 21st century.

Hawks Current Leaders: Clint Capela (11.9 RPG), Al Horford (8.9 RPG), Shareef Abdur-Rahim (8.9 RPG)

Boston Celtics – Kevin Garnett (8.3 RPG)

Kevin Garnett brought intensity and toughness to the Boston Celtics, averaging 8.3 rebounds per game during his time with the team from 2007 to 2013. Known for his relentless energy and defensive prowess, Garnett was a key figure in the Celtics’ 2008 championship run. His ability to dominate the boards, along with his defensive versatility, made him the anchor of Boston’s defense during his tenure. Garnett’s rebounding was a crucial part of his game, as he consistently fought for every loose ball and provided the Celtics with second-chance opportunities on offense.

Garnett’s best rebounding season with the Celtics came in 2007-08, averaging 9.2 rebounds per game and helped lead the team to their first NBA title in over two decades. His leadership, both on and off the court, was instrumental in transforming the Celtics into a powerhouse during his time in Boston. Garnett’s impact on the Celtics remains significant, and his rebounding numbers reflect his dedication to doing the dirty work that helped his team win.

Celtics Current Leaders: Kevin Garnett (8.3 RPG), Antoine Walker (8.2 RPG), Jared Sullinger (7.7 RPG)

Brooklyn Nets – Reggie Evans (9.4 RPG)

Reggie Evans was a beast on the boards during his time with the Brooklyn Nets. Averaging 9.4 rebounds per game from 2012 to 2014, Evans wasn’t the flashiest player, but his relentless effort and nose for the ball made him a rebounding machine. His ability to dominate the glass, especially on the defensive end, provided the Nets with a crucial edge in controlling possessions. In the 2012-13 season, Evans posted a career-high 11.1 rebounds per game, cementing his status as the top rebounder for the Nets in the 21st century.

Evans was known for his tenacity and toughness, often outworking bigger and stronger opponents to secure rebounds. His time with the Nets may have been brief, but his impact on the boards was undeniable, as he consistently provided the team with extra possessions and energy. Evans’ rebounding prowess made him a fan favorite in Brooklyn, and his contributions on the glass were a key part of the team’s identity during his tenure.

Nets Current Leaders: Reggie Evans (9.4 RPG), DeAndre Jordan (8.7 RPG), Kris Humphries (8.6 RPG)

Charlotte Hornets – Emeka Okafor (10.7 RPG)

Emeka Okafor was a force on the boards for the Charlotte Hornets during his time with the team from 2004 to 2009. Averaging 10.7 rebounds per game, Okafor was the backbone of the Hornets’ defense, consistently cleaning up the glass on both ends of the court. His best rebounding season came in 2006-07 as he averaged 11.3 rebounds per game, showcasing his ability to control the paint and provide the Hornets with much-needed interior presence. Okafor’s relentless work on the boards made him the Hornets’ top rebounder in the 21st century.

Okafor’s impact on the Hornets extended beyond just rebounding; his defensive presence and shot-blocking ability were also key to the team’s success during his tenure. As a former Rookie of the Year, Okafor brought consistency and effort to every game, making him one of the most reliable big men in the league during his time in Charlotte. His rebounding dominance set the standard for future Hornets players to follow.

Hornets Current Leaders: Emeka Okafor (10.7 RPG), P.J. Brown (9.6), Al Jefferson (8.9 RPG)

Chicago Bulls – Pau Gasol (11.4 RPG)

Pau Gasol was a rebounding powerhouse during his time with the Chicago Bulls from 2014 to 2016. Averaging 11.4 rebounds per game, Gasol brought veteran leadership and a strong presence in the paint to the Bulls. His best rebounding season came in 2014-15, posting 11.8 rebounds per game, and named an All-Star. Gasol’s ability to control the boards, both offensively and defensively, played a crucial role in the Bulls’ success during his tenure, providing the team with stability and a consistent double-double threat every night.

Gasol’s impact on the Bulls extended beyond just his rebounding; his versatility and high basketball IQ made him a valuable asset in all aspects of the game. His time in Chicago was marked by his professionalism and ability to anchor the team’s frontcourt. Gasol’s rebounding numbers with the Bulls solidify his place as one of the top big men in the franchise’s recent history.

Bulls Current Leaders: Pau Gasol (11.4 RPG), Nikola Vucevic (10.9 RPG), Ben Wallace (9.9 RPG)

Cleveland Cavaliers – Jarrett Allen (10.3 RPG)

Jarrett Allen has been elite on the boards for the Cleveland Cavaliers since joining the team in 2021. Averaging 10.3 rebounds per game, Allen has become the backbone of the Cavaliers’ interior defense, consistently providing strong performances in the paint. His best season on the boards came in 2021-22 when he averaged 10.8 rebounds per game, earning his first All-Star selection. Allen’s ability to control the glass has been crucial to the Cavaliers’ success, making him the top rebounder for the franchise in the 21st century.

Allen’s impact goes beyond just his rebounding numbers; his shot-blocking and ability to finish around the rim have made him a key piece in the Cavaliers’ resurgence. His work ethic and consistency on the boards have established him as one of the most reliable centers in the league, and his presence in the paint is a constant advantage for Cleveland.

Cavaliers Current Leaders: Jarrett Allen (10.3 RPG), Carlos Boozer (9.4 RPG), Kevin Love (9.2 RPG)

Dallas Mavericks – Tyson Chandler (10.4 RPG)

Tyson Chandler was a key defensive anchor for the Dallas Mavericks, especially during their 2010-11 championship season. Averaging 10.4 rebounds per game during his time with the Mavericks, Chandler’s presence in the paint was instrumental in the team’s success. His ability to dominate the boards, particularly on the defensive end, provided the Mavericks with stability and toughness in the interior. Chandler’s best rebounding season came in 2014-15 averaging 11.5 rebounds per game, reaffirming his role as one of the premier rebounders in the league.

Chandler’s impact on the Mavericks extended beyond just his rebounding; his leadership and defensive prowess helped guide the team to their first-ever NBA title in 2011. His ability to control the paint and provide second-chance opportunities on the offensive glass made him an invaluable asset for Dallas during his tenure.

Mavericks Current Leaders: Tyson Chandler (10.4 RPG), Kristaps Porzingis (8.8 RPG), Luka Doncic (8.7 RPG)

Denver Nuggets – Marcus Camby (11.1 RPG)

Marcus Camby was a dominant force on the boards during his time with the Denver Nuggets, averaging 11.1 rebounds per game from 2002 to 2008. Known for his defensive tenacity and shot-blocking ability, Camby was a key figure in the Nuggets’ frontcourt, consistently pulling down rebounds and protecting the rim. His best rebounding season with the Nuggets came in 2006-07, averaging 11.7 rebounds per game, and earning the NBA Defensive Player of the Year award. Camby’s ability to control the glass made him the top rebounder for the Nuggets in the 21st century.

Camby’s presence in the paint was a significant factor in the Nuggets’ success during his tenure, as he consistently provided the team with second-chance opportunities and strong defensive performances. His rebounding and shot-blocking were crucial to the Nuggets’ playoff runs, solidifying his legacy as one of the best defensive big men in franchise history.

Nuggets Current Leaders: Marcus Camby (11.1 RPG), Nikola Jokic (10.7 RPG), Antonio McDyess (9.8 RPG)

Detroit Pistons – Andre Drummond (13.9 RPG)

Andre Drummond was a rebounding machine during his time with the Detroit Pistons, averaging an incredible 13.9 rebounds per game from 2012 to 2020. Known for his dominance on the glass, Drummond led the NBA in rebounding multiple times, including a career-best 16.0 rebounds per game in the 2017-18 season. His ability to control the boards on both ends of the floor made him the cornerstone of the Pistons’ frontcourt for nearly a decade. Drummond’s rebounding prowess remains unmatched in the franchise’s history, making him the top rebounder for the Pistons in the 21st century.

Drummond’s impact extended beyond just his rebounding; his presence in the paint provided the Pistons with a strong defensive anchor and a reliable source of second-chance points. His consistency on the boards earned him two All-Star selections and solidified his place as one of the premier big men in the league during his time in Detroit.

Pistons Current Leaders: Andre Drummond (13.9 RPG), Ben Wallace (11.1 RPG), Jalen Duren (10.2 RPG)

Golden State Warriors – David Lee (9.3 RPG)

David Lee was a consistent influence on the boards during his time with the Golden State Warriors, averaging 9.3 rebounds per game from 2010 to 2015. Known for his hustle and effort in the paint, Lee provided the Warriors with reliable rebounding and scoring from the power forward position. His best season with the Warriors came in 2012-13 as he averaged 11.2 rebounds per game, earning him his second All-Star selection. Lee’s work on the glass played a crucial role in the Warriors’ early success before their championship run, making him the top rebounder for the franchise in the 21st century.

Lee’s contributions extended beyond just rebounding; his versatility on offense and his leadership were vital as the Warriors transitioned into one of the league’s powerhouse teams. His ability to pull down rebounds and contribute on both ends of the floor helped lay the foundation for the team’s eventual success.

Warriors Current Leaders: David Lee (9.3 RPG), Troy Murphy (8.2 RPG), Andrew Bogut (8.1 RPG)

Houston Rockets – Dwight Howard (11.7 RPG)

When it comes to dominating the boards, few did it better for the Houston Rockets than Dwight Howard. Averaging 11.7 rebounds per game during his time with the Rockets from 2013 to 2016, Howard brought his trademark physicality and defensive presence to the team. His best rebounding season with the Rockets came in 2013-14 when he averaged 12.2 rebounds per game, helping the team reach the playoffs. Howard’s ability to control the paint and grab crucial rebounds made him an essential part of the Rockets’ success during his tenure.

Howard’s impact went beyond just pulling down rebounds; his shot-blocking and interior defense were also key to the Rockets’ playoff runs during those years. His presence in the middle made Houston a tough team to score against, and his leadership in the paint helped solidify the team’s defensive identity.

Rockets Current Leaders: Dwight Howard (11.7 RPG), Omer Asik (10.3 RPG), Christian Wood (9.9 RPG)

Indiana Pacers – Domantas Sabonis (10.5 RPG)

Domantas Sabonis quickly became one of the league’s top rebounders during his years with the Indiana Pacers, averaging 10.5 rebounds per game from 2017 to 2022. His standout season came in 2020-21 when he pulled down 12.0 rebounds per game, earning him his second consecutive All-Star selection. Sabonis was a force on the glass, consistently providing the Pacers with second-chance opportunities and anchoring their interior defense.

In 2022, Sabonis was traded to the Sacramento Kings in a move that marked a new chapter for both him and the Pacers. His time in Indiana solidified his reputation as a versatile big man, capable of not only dominating the boards but also facilitating the offense with his passing skills.

Pacers Current Leaders: Domantas Sabonis (10.5 RPG), Jermaine O’Neal (9.6 RPG), Troy Murphy (9.2 RPG)

Los Angeles Clippers – Marcus Camby (11.6 RPG)

Marcus Camby made a significant impact on the boards during his time with the Los Angeles Clippers, averaging 11.6 rebounds per game from 2008 to 2010. Known for his defensive prowess and relentless effort on the glass, Camby consistently provided the Clippers with strong rebounding performances. His best season with the team came in 2008-09 posting 11.8 rebounds per game, establishing himself as one of the premier rebounders in the league during that period.

Camby’s ability to dominate the boards was crucial for the Clippers, providing them with stability in the paint and helping to anchor their defense. His contributions on the glass were matched by his shot-blocking, making him a key figure in the team’s interior defense during his stint with the Clippers.

Clippers Current Leaders: Marcus Camby (11.6 RPG), DeAndre Jordan (10.7 RPG), Elton Brand (10.3 RPG)

Los Angeles Lakers – Shaquille O’Neal (11.5 RPG)

When it came to owning the paint, Shaquille O’Neal was the ultimate enforcer for the Los Angeles Lakers. Averaging 11.5 rebounds per game during his time with the team from 1996 to 2004, Shaq’s sheer size and strength made him a force to be reckoned with on the boards. His ability to dominate the glass was a key factor in the Lakers’ three-peat championship run from 2000 to 2002. In the 1999-00 season, Shaq pulled down 13.6 rebounds per game, solidifying his role as the backbone of the Lakers’ interior.

Shaq’s rebounding, combined with his scoring and defensive presence, helped define an era of Lakers basketball. His contributions on the boards were crucial in providing the team with second-chance points and controlling the tempo of the game. Shaq’s legacy as one of the greatest centers in NBA history is firmly rooted in his time with the Lakers, where he left an indelible mark on the franchise.

Lakers Current Leaders: Shaquille O’Neal (11.5 RPG), Anthony Davis (10.8 RPG), Pau Gasol (9.9 RPG)

Memphis Grizzlies – Jonas Valanciunas (11.7 RPG)

In the gritty, hard-nosed style that defines the Memphis Grizzlies, Jonas Valanciunas was a perfect fit as a rebounding force. Averaging 11.7 rebounds per game during his time with the team from 2019 to 2021, Valanciunas was a relentless presence in the paint. His 2020-21 season was particularly standout, where he pulled down a career-best 12.5 rebounds per game, helping the Grizzlies secure crucial possessions and control the tempo of games.

Valanciunas’ time in Memphis came to an end in the summer of 2021 when he was traded to the New Orleans Pelicans in exchange for Steven Adams, Eric Bledsoe, and draft picks. While the move signaled a shift in direction for the Grizzlies, Valanciunas’ impact on the boards and his role in defining the team’s tough identity left a lasting legacy in Memphis.

Grizzlies Current Leaders: Jonas Valanciunas (11.7 RPG), Steven Adams (10.6 RPG), Zach Randolph (10.2 RPG)

Miami Heat – Hassan Whiteside (11.9 RPG)

Hassan Whiteside made a name for himself as a dominant rebounder during his time with the Miami Heat, averaging 11.9 rebounds per game from 2014 to 2019. Known for his shot-blocking and ability to control the paint, Whiteside’s best season on the boards came in 2016-17 when he led the league with an impressive 14.1 rebounds per game. His relentless effort on the glass made him a crucial piece of Miami’s defense, consistently providing second-chance opportunities and anchoring the paint.

Whiteside’s presence in the middle was instrumental for the Heat during those years, and his contributions earned him a place among the franchise’s top rebounders. His tenure with the team ended when he was traded to the Portland Trail Blazers in 2019 as part of a deal that brought Jimmy Butler to Miami, signaling a new era for the Heat.

Heat Current Leaders: Hassan Whiteside (11.9 RPG), Shaquille O’Neal (9.1 RPG), Bam Adebayo (8.7 RPG)

Milwaukee Bucks – Giannis Antetokounmpo (9.8 RPG)

When it comes to doing it all, Giannis Antetokounmpo has been the epitome of versatility for the Milwaukee Bucks, especially on the boards. Averaging 9.8 rebounds per game throughout his career, Giannis has been a force of nature in the paint. His standout rebounding season came in 2019-20, where he pulled down 13.6 rebounds per game, further cementing his status as one of the league’s most dominant players.

Giannis’ impact on the Bucks goes far beyond just rebounding. Over his career, he’s been named a two-time NBA MVP (2019, 2020), NBA Defensive Player of the Year (2020), an eight-time All-Star, and was crucial in leading Milwaukee to their first championship in 50 years in 2021, where he was named Finals MVP. His relentless work on the glass is just one aspect of what makes him one of the best in the game today.

Bucks Current Leaders: Giannis Antetokounmpo (9.8 RPG), Andrew Bogut (9.3 RPG), Bobby Portis (8.3 RPG)

Minnesota Timberwolves – Rudy Gobert (12.3 RPG)

Rudy Gobert has been a dominant presence on the boards since joining the Minnesota Timberwolves in 2022. Averaging 12.3 rebounds per game, Gobert quickly became the anchor of the Timberwolves’ defense. His acquisition in a blockbuster trade with the Utah Jazz raised questions about how he would fit alongside Karl-Anthony Towns, but Gobert has silenced those doubts with his impactful play.

In the 2023-24 season, Gobert played a crucial role in leading the Timberwolves to the Western Conference Finals, proving that his defensive prowess and rebounding were exactly what the team needed. Gobert’s stellar defensive performance earned him his fourth NBA Defensive Player of the Year award, further solidifying his reputation as one of the best defenders in the game. His ability to control the glass has been a key factor in Minnesota’s deep playoff run and has cemented his status as the team’s top rebounder in the century so far.

Timberwolves Current Leaders: Rudy Gobert (12.3 RPG), Kevin Love (12.2 RPG), Kevin Garnett (12.2 RPG)

New Orleans Pelicans – Tyson Chandler (11.3 RPG)

.Tyson Chandler made a brief but impactful stop with the New Orleans Pelicans (then the Hornets), where he averaged 11.3 rebounds per game during the 2008-09 season. Chandler’s ability to dominate the glass was crucial in providing the team with a strong defensive presence in the paint. His rebounding helped the Pelicans become more competitive in the Western Conference, and his best rebounding season saw him pull down 11.7 rebounds per game.

Although Chandler’s time with the Pelicans was short, his rebounding ability left a lasting impression. His work on the boards set the tone for the team’s interior defense and provided a model for future big men in the franchise.

Pelicans Current Leaders: Tyson Chandler (11.3 RPG), Anthony Davis (10.5 RPG), Jonas Valanciunas (10.1 RPG)

New York Knicks – Tyson Chandler (10.1 RPG)

Tyson Chandler brought defensive intensity and rebounding prowess to the New York Knicks during his time with the team from 2011 to 2014, averaging 10.1 rebounds per game. Known for his shot-blocking and ability to control the paint, Chandler’s presence was a game-changer for the Knicks, helping them solidify their defense and compete at a higher level. His best season on the boards came in 2011-12 averaging 10.7 rebounds per game and earning the NBA Defensive Player of the Year award.

Chandler’s impact on the Knicks was significant, as he played a key role in leading the team to their first playoff series win in over a decade during the 2012-13 season. His rebounding, combined with his leadership on the defensive end, made him a vital part of the Knicks’ success during his tenure.

Knicks Current Leaders: Tyson Chandler (10.1 RPG), Julius Randle (9.9 RPG), Patrick Ewing (9.7 RPG)

Oklahoma City Thunder – Enes Kanter Freedom (8.0 RPG)

Enes Kanter Freedom was a strong presence on the boards for the Oklahoma City Thunder, averaging 8.0 rebounds per game during his time with the team from 2015 to 2017. Known for his relentless effort in the paint, Kanter provided the Thunder with much-needed rebounding and interior scoring off the bench. His ability to grab offensive rebounds and convert them into second-chance points was particularly valuable for the team.

Kanter’s tenure with the Thunder was marked by his consistent contribution on the glass, making him a reliable force in the frontcourt. His work on the boards helped the Thunder remain competitive in a tough Western Conference, and his rebounding numbers place him among the franchise’s top rebounders in the 21st century.

Thunder Current Leaders: Enes Kanter Freedom (8.0 RPG), Chet Holmgren (7.9 RPG), Steven Adams (7.6 RPG)

Orlando Magic – Dwight Howard (13.0 RPG)

Few players have controlled the paint like Dwight Howard did for the Orlando Magic. From 2004 to 2012, Howard averaged an astounding 13.0 rebounds per game, making him the most dominant rebounder in the franchise’s history. His accolades speak for themselves: five straight seasons leading the league in rebounds from 2007 to 2011, three NBA Defensive Player of the Year awards (2009, 2010, 2011), and six All-Star selections during his time with the Magic. Howard’s presence on the boards was a key factor in the Magic’s success, including their run to the NBA Finals in 2009.

Howard’s ability to outmuscle opponents and secure rebounds on both ends of the floor made him a nightmare for opposing teams. His leadership in the paint was the foundation of Orlando’s defense, and his rebounding records are a testament to his impact on the game.

Magic Current Leaders: Dwight Howard (13.0 RPG), Nikola Vucevic (10.8 RPG), Wendell Carter Jr. (8.8 RPG)

Philadelphia 76ers – Dikembe Mutombo (11.2 RPG)

Dikembe Mutombo may have had a brief stint with the Philadelphia 76ers, but he made a lasting impact on the boards. Averaging 11.2 rebounds per game during his time with the team from 2001 to 2002, Mutombo’s defensive presence and rebounding skills were crucial for the Sixers as they looked to build on their success from the previous year’s Finals appearance. His ability to control the paint and secure rebounds on both ends of the floor earned him an All-Star selection in 2002 and solidified his reputation as one of the league’s premier defenders.

Mutombo’s time in Philadelphia was marked by his signature shot-blocking and tenacious rebounding, providing the team with a strong interior presence. Though his stay was short, Mutombo’s rebounding average places him among the best in franchise history, leaving a legacy of toughness and defensive excellence.

76ers Current Leaders: Dikembe Mutombo (11.2 RPG), Joel Embiid (11.2 RPG), Chris Webber (9.3 RPG)

Phoenix Suns – Deandre Ayton (10.4 RPG)

Deandre Ayton anchored the paint for the Phoenix Suns from the moment he was drafted in 2018, averaging 10.4 rebounds per game. His presence on the boards played a key role in the Suns’ resurgence, especially during their run to the NBA Finals in 2021, where he averaged 11.5 rebounds per game in the playoffs. Ayton’s ability to control the glass and provide interior defense made him a cornerstone of the Suns’ success during his time in Phoenix.

In the 2023 offseason, Ayton’s tenure with the Suns came to an end when he was traded to the Portland Trail Blazers as part of a blockbuster deal that reshaped both franchises. Despite the move, Ayton’s impact on the Suns remains significant, as he left a lasting legacy as one of the franchise’s top rebounders in the modern era.

Suns Current Leaders: Deandre Ayton (10.4 RPG), Shawn Marion (10.3 RPG), Tyson Chandler (9.5 RPG)

Portland Trail Blazers – Marcus Camby (10.0 RPG)

Marcus Camby brought his veteran savvy and defensive expertise to the Portland Trail Blazers, where he averaged 10.0 rebounds per game during his time with the team from 2010 to 2012. Camby’s ability to control the glass and protect the rim provided the Blazers with much-needed stability in the paint, especially during key moments in the season. His best season with Portland came in 2010-11, when he averaged 10.3 rebounds per game, reinforcing his reputation as one of the league’s top rebounders.

Camby’s presence in Portland was instrumental in anchoring the team’s defense, and his relentless work on the boards made him a fan favorite. Even in the latter stages of his career, Camby’s rebounding skills remained elite, making him one of the best to ever wear a Blazers uniform in the 21st century.

Blazers Current Leaders: Marcus Camby (10.0 RPG), Jusuf Nurkic (9.8 RPG), LaMarcus Aldridge (8.4 RPG)

Sacramento Kings – Domantas Sabonis (12.9 RPG)

Domantas Sabonis quickly became a force on the boards for the Sacramento Kings after joining the team in 2022. Averaging an impressive 12.9 rebounds per game, Sabonis has provided the Kings with much-needed interior strength and consistency. His ability to dominate the glass was instrumental in helping Sacramento end their 16-year playoff drought in the 2022-23 season, solidifying his role as a key contributor to the team’s resurgence.

Sabonis’ impact on the Kings was immediate and significant, as his rebounding and playmaking have made him a central figure in Sacramento’s rise in the Western Conference. His trade from the Indiana Pacers has proven to be a turning point for the Kings, with Sabonis emerging as their top rebounder in the 21st century.

Kings Current Leaders: Domantas Sabonis (12.9 RPG), DeMarcus Cousins (10.8 RPG), Chris Webber (10.3 RPG)

San Antonio Spurs – Tim Duncan (10.7 RPG)

Tim Duncan is synonymous with rebounding excellence for the San Antonio Spurs, averaging 10.7 rebounds per game during his legendary career from 1997 to 2016. Known as “The Big Fundamental,” Duncan’s ability to control the glass was a cornerstone of the Spurs’ dominance throughout his tenure. His consistency on the boards was crucial in San Antonio’s five NBA championships, with Duncan providing steady rebounding and defensive presence year after year. His leadership and clutch performances made him the backbone of the Spurs’ dynasty.

Duncan’s rebounding prowess was complemented by his exceptional defense and efficient scoring, making him one of the greatest power forwards in NBA history. His impact on the game and the Spurs franchise is immeasurable, with his name etched into the record books as the team’s all-time leading rebounder in the 21st century.

Spurs Current Leaders: Tim Duncan (10.7 RPG), Victor Wembanyama (10.6 RPG), David Robinson (8.7 RPG)

Toronto Raptors – Chris Bosh (9.4 RPG)

Chris Bosh was the heart and soul of the Toronto Raptors from 2003 to 2010, leading the team both in scoring and on the boards. Averaging 9.4 rebounds per game, Bosh’s presence in the paint was a key factor in the Raptors’ competitiveness during those years. His best rebounding season came in 2009-10, as he averaged 10.8 rebounds per game and earned his fifth consecutive All-Star selection. Bosh was a two-time All-NBA selection during his tenure with the Raptors and was the franchise’s all-time leading scorer and rebounder by the time he left.

In the summer of 2010, Bosh’s time in Toronto came to an end when he joined LeBron James and Dwyane Wade in Miami as part of the Heat’s “Big Three.” His departure marked a significant shift for the Raptors, who entered a rebuilding phase. Despite leaving, Bosh’s contributions during his time with the Raptors left a lasting legacy, and his accolades reflect his impact on the franchise.

Raptors Current Leaders: Chris Bosh (9.4 RPG), Antonio Davis (9.3 RPG), Jonas Valanciunas (8.4 RPG)

Utah Jazz – Rudy Gobert (11.7 RPG)

Rudy Gobert redefined interior defense and rebounding for the Utah Jazz during his time with the team from 2013 to 2022, averaging 11.7 rebounds per game. Known as “The Stifle Tower,” Gobert’s dominance on the boards and his elite shot-blocking ability made him a cornerstone of the Jazz’s defensive identity. His best rebounding season came in 2020-21, where he averaged 13.5 rebounds per game, earning him his third NBA Defensive Player of the Year award. Gobert’s presence in the paint was a key factor in the Jazz’s regular-season success, leading to multiple deep playoff runs.

Gobert’s tenure with the Jazz was marked by numerous accolades, including three Defensive Player of the Year awards, six All-NBA selections, and three All-Star appearances. His impact on the court was undeniable, making him one of the most feared defenders and rebounders in the league. In 2022, Gobert was traded to the Minnesota Timberwolves, ending an era in Utah but leaving behind a legacy as one of the franchise’s greatest big men.

Jazz Current Leaders: Rudy Gobert (11.7 RPG), Carlos Boozer (10.5 RPG), Al Jefferson (9.5 RPG)

Washington Wizards – Marcin Gortat (9.2 RPG)

Marcin Gortat was a key figure in the Washington Wizards’ frontcourt from 2013 to 2018, averaging 9.2 rebounds per game. Known as “The Polish Hammer,” Gortat’s physicality and work ethic made him a reliable presence in the paint. His best rebounding season with the Wizards came in 2013-14, when he averaged 9.5 rebounds per game, helping the team reach the playoffs. Gortat’s ability to control the boards and set solid screens made him a vital part of Washington’s success during his tenure.

Gortat was also known for his durability, often playing a full season and providing the Wizards with consistent performances night in and night out. His contributions on the glass, coupled with his defensive efforts, made him the top rebounder for the Wizards in the 21st century. After his time in Washington, Gortat continued to be a valuable veteran presence in the league until his retirement the next season.

Wizards Current Leaders: Marcin Gortat (9.2 RPG), Antawn Jamison (8.9 RPG), Kyle Kuzma (7.4 RPG)