Introduction
The Los Angeles Lakers are one of the most storied franchises in the NBA, known for their legendary players and impressive championships. But while much of the spotlight has often been on scoring, some Lakers players have left an undeniable mark on the Lakers all-time rebounding leaderboard. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the top five Lakers rebounders—players who excelled at securing rebounds and helped define NBA excellence with their performances.
From the powerhouse rebounding skills of Wilt Chamberlain to the versatility of Magic Johnson, here’s a rundown of the Lakers’ top rebounding legends who dominated the boards and cemented their place in franchise history.
Table of Contents
1. Elgin Baylor (1958-71): 11,463 Rebounds
At the top of the Lakers all-time rebounding leaders list is Elgin Baylor, a prolific forward who transformed the game with his rebounding prowess. Known for his ability to score and grab rebounds, Baylor consistently averaged double-doubles throughout his career. His rookie season alone saw him record 24.9 points and 15 rebounds per game, an impressive start to a remarkable career.
Baylor’s impact on the boards was sustained over his 13-year career, with no fewer than 12 rebounds per game in his first seven seasons. His contributions have made him a foundational figure in Lakers history, and his 11,463 rebounds still stand as the highest in the franchise’s record books.
2. Kareem Abdul-Jabbar (1975-89): 10,279 Rebounds
kareem Abdul-Jabbar, best known for his skyhook shot and scoring ability, also made an enormous impact on the glass. After starting his career in Milwaukee, Abdul-Jabbar joined the Lakers and quickly established himself as one of their top rebounders, averaging more than 10 rebounds per game during his first six seasons in Los Angeles. His dedication and consistency on the boards allowed him to reach 10,279 total rebounds, putting him firmly in second place among Lakers’ top rebounders.
In addition to his rebounding totals, Abdul-Jabbar contributed to the Lakers’ dominance in the NBA, solidifying his legacy as one of the franchise’s all-time greats.
Also Read: 13 Amazing Facts About LeBron James: The King of Basketball
3. Kobe Bryant (1996-2016): 7,047 Rebounds
A name synonymous with the Los Angeles Lakers and the NBA Hall of Fame, Kobe Bryant holds the third spot among Lakers all-time rebounding leaders. Known for his scoring and competitive drive, Bryant’s consistency on the court also extended to rebounding. Over his 20-year career with the Lakers, Bryant accumulated 7,047 rebounds, with an average of 5.2 rebounds per game.
Bryant’s place in Lakers history goes beyond rebounding, but his position on this list is a testament to his versatility and ability to contribute across the board. His longevity and dedication made him one of the most complete players in franchise history.
4. Magic Johnson (1979-91, 1996): 6,559 Rebounds
Magic Johnson is perhaps most celebrated for his playmaking and leadership, yet his ability to secure rebounds was also critical to his success. With 6,559 rebounds across his career with the Lakers, Johnson consistently ranked among the top Lakers rebounders. Known for his height and agility as a point guard, Johnson’s rebounding skills allowed him to record impressive numbers, frequently averaging between 6.2 and 9.6 rebounds per season.
Johnson’s contributions on the boards reflect his all-around impact on the game, making him one of the most influential players in Lakers history.
5. Wilt Chamberlain (1968-73): 6,524 Rebounds
Rounding out the top five Lakers rebounders is Wilt Chamberlain, who joined the Lakers in 1968 after establishing himself as one of the NBA’s premier rebounders. Chamberlain’s time with the Lakers may have been short, but it was certainly impactful. His debut season in Los Angeles saw him averaging a jaw-dropping 21.1 rebounds per game, followed by four seasons with averages of at least 18.2 rebounds per game.
Chamberlain’s remarkable rebounding ability allowed him to amass 6,524 rebounds in only five seasons, securing his spot among Lakers all-time rebounding leaders and furthering his legacy as one of the greatest rebounders in NBA history.
Honorable Mentions and Legacy of Lakers’ Rebounding Giants
Beyond these top five Lakers rebounders, other names like Shaquille O’Neal and Pau Gasol also contributed significantly to the Lakers franchise rebounding records. The Lakers’ history of dominant big men and versatile forwards has helped them achieve numerous championships, and their top rebounding leaders reflect the team’s all-around excellence.
The dedication and skill demonstrated by these players on the boards have been instrumental in shaping the Lakers’ identity as a powerhouse in the NBA. The team’s legacy isn’t just about scoring; it’s about making every possession count, something these top rebounders did with precision.
Conclusion
These top five all-time Los Angeles Lakers rebounding leaders showcase the diversity and talent that has defined the Lakers franchise over the years. From Elgin Baylor’s double-doubles to Kareem Abdul-Jabbar’s dominance, these players have left an indelible mark on Lakers history, proving that rebounding is just as crucial to success as scoring. By mastering the art of the rebound, these athletes have become legends not just for the Lakers, but for the entire NBA.
This legacy of excellence on the boards underscores the significance of basketball fundamentals in building a championship team—a foundation the Lakers have relied on and one that continues to inspire new generations of players.
