The Definitive New York Knicks Roster Breakdown: The Frontcourt
By Adam Kester
New York Knicks Frontcourt: Taj Gibson
If you go to Taj Gibson’s Basketball Reference page, his nicknames will read “Hard Hat” and “Lunch Pail”.
Gibson, the eternal “Thibs guy”, has become an important part of this Knicks team.
What We Know
At first glance of the depth chart, you don’t think that a 36-year-old, 3rd string center has much value.
Through all odds, the long-time NBA veteran has made himself a valuable depth piece for the New York Knicks in the later stages of his career.
He’s not simply a “warm body” at the end of the depth chart, he’s somebody who can actually give you positive minutes when called upon.
What To Expect
An All-Star season? Gibson did just put up 21 points and 9 rebounds in his last preseason start.
With Nerlens Noel likely to miss two or three games and Mitchell Robinson returning from his long injury recovery, we will definitely see some significant Taj Gibson minutes in the first few games of the season.
Gibson’s value as a leader on this team and a resource for the younger players is immeasurable. Not just his experience in the NBA, but his experience playing for coach Tom Thibodeau. He can teach his younger teammates how to succeed and be the best versions of themselves for Thibs.
He’s not going to be flashy on the court, he’s just going to do whatever it takes to win.