When thinking about top NBA performances by rebounding trios, several legendary combinations come to mind. One of my favorite trios has to be from the 1995-96 Chicago Bulls, featuring Dennis Rodman, Scottie Pippen, and Michael Jordan. These guys defined the concept of domination on the boards. Rodman, the Worm, didn't just average 14.9 rebounds per game that season, he epitomized relentless energy and efficiency in the paint, simply outworking and outmaneuvering anyone in his path. In comparison, Pippen and Jordan combined for 13.1 rebounds per game, adding further to this imposing rebounding force. The chemistry and hustle exhibited by these guys set a benchmark that arguably no one has touched since.
Fast forward to a more recent trio, the 2012-14 Minnesota Timberwolves, comprising Kevin Love, Nikola Peković, and Corey Brewer. Love was a beast on the boards, averaging 13.3 rebounds per game in the 2013-14 season. Peković backed him up with an additional 8.7 rebounds per game, making them a powerful tandem in close-quarters combat under the hoop. Brewer, while not nearly as prolific as the other two, still chipped in crucial boards that often swayed the game's momentum. The group's synergy was paramount, and Love's capability to launch outlet passes initiated fast breaks, setting the team apart strategically.
Another fascinating trio worth mentioning is from the 2007-08 Boston Celtics with Kevin Garnett, Paul Pierce, and Kendrick Perkins. Garnett led the charge with an impressive 9.2 rebounds per game, but what really sticks out is how each player complemented the other. Pierce chipped in with 6.3, and Perkins, though less recognized, contributed vital rebounds per game, usually averaging around 6 rebounds. These numbers might not leap off the page individually, but as a unit, their collective timing and positioning were impeccable. They controlled both ends of the court, often turning defensive boards into swift, lethal offensive transitions.
The Lakers' trio of Shaquille O'Neal, Kobe Bryant, and Robert Horry during the 2001-02 season were a force of nature. Shaq led the team with 10.7 rebounds per game, but it wasn't just the numbers that mattered; it was his sheer presence that imposed fear. Kobe's versatility allowed him to snag about 6.9 rebounds, while Horry was the perfect role player, securing crucial rebounds and shooting those unforgettable clutch threes. Their rebounding prowess served as the foundation for the Lakers' fast-paced offensive play, which was instrumental in winning the championship that season.
Moving on to the era of superteams, the Miami Heat's triumvirate of LeBron James, Chris Bosh, and Dwyane Wade between 2010-14 remains iconic. LeBron's 7.7 rebounds per game, combined with Bosh's 6.6 and Wade's 4.9, crafted a dynamic mix that was hard to match. LeBron, often initiating transitions post-rebound, was a destroyer in fast breaks. This combination not only won them back-to-back championships but also immortalized their style of hustling both ends of the floor. When discussing rebounding trios, people usually overlook what LeBron brought to the table defensively, transitioning into a fierce attack within seconds
It's also worth revisiting the San Antonio Spurs' triumvirate of Tim Duncan, David Robinson, and Sean Elliott during the 1998-99 lockout season. That year saw Duncan average 11.4 rebounds per game. Robinson, despite being in his career's twilight, put up stellar rebounding numbers of 10 rebounds per game. Elliott, though more known for his sharp shooting, added timely boards that kept the Spurs in control. Their collective effort led to a resounding 15-2 playoff run culminating in the franchise’s first-ever NBA Championship.
For another impressive showcase, hark back to the Detroit Pistons trio of Ben Wallace, Rasheed Wallace, and Tayshaun Prince from their 2003-04 championship season. Big Ben's defensive dominance and rebounding prowess were nothing short of spectacular, averaging 12.4 rebounds. Rasheed added another 7.3, while Prince, contributing 5, also held his own defensively. This combination was instrumental in their incredible defensive stands, culminating in an NBA title against the highly favored Los Angeles Lakers.
No discussion around rebounding trios is complete without mentioning the Houston Rockets trio of Hakeem Olajuwon, Otis Thorpe, and Robert Horry from their 1993-94 championship winning season. Hakeem was a rebounding machine grabbing 11.9 boards per game. Thorpe's 9.9 rebounds brought both physicality and finesse, which Horry rounded out by adding 6 dozen timely boards and essential corner threes, setting the stage for their deep postseason run ending in an NBA title. To sum up the crucial performances by rebounding trios, it’s essential to acknowledge the different ways these combinations pivoted their teams towards success. Arena Plus elaborates on these performances here.