Daily Knicks
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Ranking 4 Knicks free agent targets with ties to Tom Thibodeau

By Zachary Bachar

DETROIT, MI - MARCH 7: Taj Gibson #67 of the Washington Wizards reacts after being whistled for a foul during the first half of a game against the Detroit Pistons at Little Caesars Arena on March 7, 2023, in Detroit, Michigan. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Duane Burleson/Getty Images)
DETROIT, MI - MARCH 7: Taj Gibson #67 of the Washington Wizards reacts after being whistled for a foul during the first half of a game against the Detroit Pistons at Little Caesars Arena on March 7, 2023, in Detroit, Michigan. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Duane Burleson/Getty Images) /
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Taj Gibson, Washington Wizards. (Photo by Jess Rapfogel/Getty Images) – New York Knicks
Taj Gibson, Washington Wizards. (Photo by Jess Rapfogel/Getty Images) – New York Knicks /

1: Taj Gibson

Speaking of veteran mentorship, Taj Gibson has already fulfilled that role for three seasons. He spent 2019-2022 as a Knick, appearing in 159 games including five playoff contests. His bond with Thibodeau runs deep, having played for the coach at all three of his coaching stops.

After the Washington Wizards failed to meet expectations last season, the Brooklyn native could be looking to return to his hometown team. Similar to Johnson, Gibson is well into his late 30s and would sign for a minimum contract.

He’s already been teammates with most of the current Knicks roster, so the familiarity is already there. He also wouldn’t be stealing minutes from anyone, likely operating as a third-string power forward behind Obi Toppin.

Taj Gibson can be effective for the Knicks on the sidelines and court

The former first-round pick can operate in a player-coach role, helping to make sure everyone is on the same page while also remaining effective when called upon to play spot minutes here and there.

Gibson is an exceptional rebounder and solid defender given his age, while also adding a new wrinkle to his game that he developed while with the Knicks. Over his past two seasons, he’s shooting 37.1% from three. This includes a showing in his final game of the year against New York, in which he shot a career-best 39.5% from behind the arc.

Given his countless ties to both the coaching staff and roster as well as his small upcoming contract value, a return to the Knicks would help both sides.