When talking about rebounding guards in NBA Finals history, I can't ignore Magic Johnson. Standing 6-foot-9, his size alone gave him a significant advantage over typical guards. During the 1980 NBA Finals, Magic showcased his rebounding prowess by averaging 11.2 rebounds per game, which is unheard of for a guard. This performance not only undervalued the notion that guards can't dominate the boards but also set a standard so high that few have even come close.
I always remember how Dwyane Wade played during the Miami Heat’s championship runs in 2006 and the early 2010s. Wade had this tenacity that wasn't just about scoring. In the 2011 NBA Finals against the Dallas Mavericks, Wade pulled down an average of 7.5 rebounds per game. It's impressive considering his height (6-foot-4) and his role as a shooting guard, primarily focusing on scoring. Wade’s stats prove that no matter your position, rebounding can revolutionize one's entire gameplay.
Looking back at the early days, Oscar Robertson becomes a must-mention when discussing rebounding guards in the Finals. Known as the "Big O," Robertson was a stat-sheet stuffer. Despite playing guard, he averaged 11 rebounds per game during the 1963-64 NBA Finals. How many guards today can match that? It's worth noting that rebounding back then wasn’t as specialized a skill as it is today; yet, Robertson stood out with his abilities.
You can't talk about guards and rebounds without giving Dennis Johnson his dues. Although more remembered for his defense and clutch performances, he was a significant rebounding force during his three Finals appearances with the Boston Celtics. In the 1984 Finals, for example, Johnson averaged 7.3 rebounds per game. Isn't that incredible for a guard who was also their primary backcourt defender?
Jason Kidd is another legend who brought rebounding to a whole new level for guards. During the 2002 and 2003 NBA Finals with the New Jersey Nets, Kidd averaged an astounding 7.6 rebounds per game in 2002 and 9.8 in 2003. Kidd's numbers are even more impressive when considering that he was primarily tasked with orchestrating the team's offense. It’s clear that rebounding wasn't Kidd’s only forte; he was an all-around player who significantly impacted the game on both ends of the floor.
I often think about Russell Westbrook whenever people debate about modern-day rebounding guards. In the 2012 NBA Finals, even though Westbrook’s Oklahoma City Thunder fell short, he still managed to average 6.4 rebounds per game. Westbrook's athleticism and tenacity make him a relentless rebounder, regardless of his position. His rebounding numbers are more representative of a forward than a point guard, proving that the traditional roles in basketball continuously evolve.
It would be a crime not to bring up John Havlicek when talking about NBA Finals and rebounding. Although Havlicek played the majority of his career as a small forward, he started as a guard and kept those quick, guard-like instincts. During the 1969 NBA Finals, Havlicek averaged 9 rebounds per game, exhibiting why he's remembered as one of the most versatile players. His ability to grab rebounds consistently helped the Celtics dominate during that era.
On a more recent note, Shawn Marion, though listed as a forward, often found himself operating in a guard-like role, especially in transition. In the 2011 Finals with the Dallas Mavericks, Marion averaged 6.3 rebounds per game. His versatility made it seem like the Mavericks had an extra guard on the floor who could also pull down crucial rebounds. Marion’s success in this hybrid role proves just how fluid positions have become in modern basketball.
Let's not forget Klay Thompson, especially during the Golden State Warriors' 2016 Finals run. While known more for his shooting, Thompson averaged 5.2 rebounds per game during that series. It's a commendable number given his primary role as a sharpshooter. Guards who can offer rebounding capabilities add immense value to their teams, showing the critical nature of such versatility.
For the fans who love the mix of historical and modern talents, look at Clyde Drexler. Despite often being overshadowed by Michael Jordan, Drexler was an exceptional rebounding guard. During the 1992 NBA Finals, he averaged 7.8 rebounds per game. Drexler's combination of size, athleticism, and skill set him apart, cementing his place among the greatest to ever play the game.
These players emphasize the broad spectrum of what rebounding can do for a guard. The point is, regardless of your position, rebounding is all about effort and positioning. Whether you're looking back at legends like Oscar Robertson or comparing modern stalwarts like Russell Westbrook, it’s clear that rebounding can make or break a game. If you're a fan who enjoys watching players break the mold, don't forget to check out arena plus for more action-packed highlights.