A Closer Look at the Lakers‘ Top Five Rebounders

Magic Johnson, known for his passing and scoring, was also a skilled rebounder during his 13-year career with the Lakers.

The Los Angeles Lakers have etched their name in the annals of NBA history as one of the most successful franchises, marked by a legacy filled with Hall of Famers and iconic athletes. When it comes to rebounding, a crucial component of basketball that speaks volumes about a player’s tenacity and skill, the Lakers have had their share of legends. This article dives into the top five rebounders in Lakers history, examining their impact on the game and their contributions to the franchise.

1. Elgin Baylor (1958-71) – 11,463 Rebounds

Elgin Baylor, an indomitable force during his career, stands at the pinnacle of the Lakers’ rebounding leaderboard with an astounding 11,463 rebounds. Baylor was a double-double machine, averaging a remarkable 24.9 points and 15 rebounds per game as a rookie. In fact, he pulled down at least 12 rebounds per game during his first seven seasons — an impressive feat that exemplifies his dominance in the paint. For four more seasons, he maintained averages over ten rebounds, cementing his status as one of the greatest forwards to ever play the game.

2. Kareem Abdul-Jabbar (1975-89) – 10,279 Rebounds

After a stellar start in Milwaukee, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar truly made his mark while playing in Los Angeles. He recorded 10,279 rebounds in his career with the Lakers while establishing himself as one of the NBA’s greatest scorers and rebounders. In his first six seasons as a Laker, he averaged over ten rebounds per game, including a career-high of 16.9 rebounds in 1975. Abdul-Jabbar continued to excel on the boards, reinforcing his legacy with at least 7.7 rebounds per game in subsequent seasons. His fusion of scoring ability and rebounding prowess made him a pivotal figure during the Lakers’ glory years.

3. Kobe Bryant (1996-2016) – 7,047 Rebounds

A household name synonymous with excellence, Kobe Bryant’s Hall of Fame career allowed him to accumulate 7,047 rebounds, placing him third on the Lakers’ all-time list. Known for his scoring and competitive spirit, Bryant averaged 5.2 rebounds per game throughout his illustrious 20-year tenure with the Lakers. His commitment to improving every aspect of his game and his longevity played significant roles in not just his scoring achievements, but also his rebounding success.

4. Magic Johnson (1979-91, 1996) – 6,559 Rebounds

Earvin "Magic" Johnson’s impact on the Lakers cannot be overstated. As one of basketball’s all-time greats, Johnson’s scoring and facilitation abilities were widely celebrated, but he also made important contributions on the boards. Throughout his 13-year career, he amassed 6,559 rebounds, averaging below six only twice. His ability to rebound, particularly for a player often positioned as a guard, highlights his versatility and dedication to team success.

5. Wilt Chamberlain (1968-73) – 6,524 Rebounds

Although Wilt Chamberlain had a relatively short stint with the Lakers, his rebounding ability was nothing short of legendary. Joining the Lakers in 1968, he left a lasting impression by pulling down 21.1 rebounds per game in his first season and maintaining an average of at least 18.2 rebounds in each of his remaining seasons. Chamberlain’s dominance on the boards, even in a condensed frame of time, showcases his unparalleled skill set and adaptability, solidifying his position among the Lakers’ top five rebounders.

Interview and Debate: Examining the Lakers’ Legendary Rebounders

In today’s discussion, we are privileged to have the legendary NBA player James Worthy, a three-time NBA Champion and a pivotal member of the Lakers during their Showtime era.

Moderator: James, you’ve played alongside some of the greatest rebounders in Lakers history. When we look at Elgin Baylor with over 11,000 rebounds, what do you believe set him apart from others?

James Worthy: Elgin was exceptional because of his skill set and versatility. He was not just a scorer; he had the ability to get to the rim and position himself perfectly for boards. His combination of size, skill, and understanding of the game made him a dominant player. It’s no coincidence that he remains at the top of the Lakers’ rebounding chart.

Moderator: Absolutely. Now, transitioning to Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, who also had a profound impact on rebounding. What made his contribution unique compared to Baylor’s?

James Worthy: Kareem was a different kind of force. While Elgin was agile and dynamic, Kareem brought a unique blend of finesse and strength. His hook shot is legendary, but he was equally relentless on the boards. His longevity in the league allowed him to accumulate those numbers over time, whereas Baylor’s peak was more concentrated in shorter bursts.

Moderator: Kobe Bryant rounds out the top three rebounders. How do you evaluate Kobe’s rebounding efforts considering his primary role was as a scorer?

James Worthy: Kobe’s determination was second to none. He approached every aspect of the game with the same intensity he showed in scoring. Most fans think of him as a prolific scorer, but he understood the importance of rebounding for a guard. His ability to contribute on the boards exemplified the complete player he was.

Moderator: Now, let’s talk about Magic Johnson. His rebounding numbers are impressive for a guard. How did his position affect his rebounding style?

James Worthy: Magic was unique just by his size and vision. He had a knack for anticipating where the ball would go, which allowed him to grab rebounds effectively. Plus, he was always transitioning into offensive plays quickly. That awareness helped him carve out an impressive rebounding record for someone in his position.

Moderator: Finally, Wilt Chamberlain had a relatively brief period with the Lakers but showed immense rebounding prowess. How should we assess his contribution in such a limited timeframe?

James Worthy: Wilt’s impact was immediate and undeniable. He approached the game with a physicality that few could match, dominating the glass in every game he played. Even in just five years, he established himself as a force, and those numbers speak volumes. It’s remarkable how quickly he made his mark in the short time he was with the franchise.

Now, we’re keen to hear from our readers! What are your thoughts on these all-time great rebounders? Do you agree with the rankings provided, or do you think someone deserves a shout-out? Share your opinions and let’s discuss how these legends impacted the Lakers’ storied history.