Kobe Bryant has been frequently stepping up this playoffs on his rebounding especially in the playoffs, as Andrew Bynum has been facing limited minutes.

With Lamar Odom coming off the bench, and Trevor Ariza more keen to lead the fast breaks for the Lakers, duty has fallen on to Kobe to increase his defensive rebounding presence.

In addition, Kobe has been generally guarding the small JR Smith, so while JR is going through the lane, Kobe has the size advantage, and if he is on the outside, it gives Kobe a chance to slide in to grab the board.

Kobe has got 6, 5 and 6 rebounds in the last 3 games, and with Denver on the edge of losing their second game on their home court, look for Kobe to provide leadership and grab every single board that he can get his hands on.