Rebounding Tracking Data
LeBron James's rebounding metrics from the NBA's player tracking system, including contested vs uncontested splits, rebound chances, and conversion rates since 2013-14.
Data Availability Note
Player tracking data is only available from the 2013-14 season onward. This data does not exist for Michael Jordan's playing career.
Career Tracking Averages (2013-14 to Present)
Rebound Type Breakdown
| Type | Per Game | % of Total |
|---|---|---|
| Offensive (Contested) | 0.8 | 10.7% |
| Offensive (Uncontested) | 0.3 | 4.0% |
| Defensive (Contested) | 2.4 | 32.0% |
| Defensive (Uncontested) | 4.0 | 53.3% |
Jordan Context
Jordan averaged 6.2 rebounds per game for his career — outstanding for a 6'6" shooting guard. While we can't measure contested vs uncontested for Jordan, his rebounds at his position were more impressive pound-for-pound. LeBron's size advantage (6'9") means he naturally gets more rebounding opportunities, especially defensively. Both players excelled at crashing the glass in transition and critical moments.
Analysis: LeBron's Rebounding Profile in the Tracking Era
LeBron James's rebounding tracking data reveals a player who does far more than simply collect uncontested defensive boards. His 42.7% contested rebound rate is notably above average for a perimeter-oriented forward, demonstrating that LeBron actively competes for rebounds in traffic rather than padding his stats with easy grabs. For context, many wings and forwards hover around 35-38% contested rate, while traditional big men who live in the paint sit closer to 50-55%.
The rebound type breakdown tells an important story about LeBron's rebounding role. His 4.0 uncontested defensive rebounds per game — representing 53.3% of his total — reflects his team's defensive scheme as much as his individual effort. In many Lakers and Cavaliers systems, LeBron is the designated outlet rebounder, grabbing the defensive board to immediately push the ball in transition. This is a strategic choice: having LeBron secure the rebound and initiate the fast break eliminates a pass and creates a speed advantage. Teams deliberately funnel defensive rebounds to LeBron for this purpose.
The contested portion of his rebounding is where LeBron's effort and physicality shine. His 2.4 contested defensive rebounds per game show that he battles on the glass even when the play isn't designed around him. His 0.8 contested offensive rebounds are particularly impressive for a player who typically retreats on defense after a missed shot rather than crashing the offensive glass. When LeBron does crash the boards offensively, he converts at a high rate against bigger defenders.
The 63.6% rebound chance conversion rate is perhaps the most revealing number. This means that when a rebound opportunity exists within LeBron's vicinity, he secures it nearly two-thirds of the time. This rate is competitive with many traditional big men and elite rebounding forwards. For a player who also handles the ball more than almost anyone in the league, maintains one of the highest usage rates in the NBA, and covers significant ground on defense, sustaining this level of rebounding efficiency is a testament to his all-around motor and physical dominance. The 1.4 deferred rebounds per game also hint at his unselfishness — occasions where he allows a teammate to grab the board for strategic reasons, often to let a point guard initiate a different offensive set.