Bleacher Report links former Knicks fan favorite to conference rival

It's been well over a year since Taj Gibson played a game in a New York Knicks uniform, but that doesn't mean fans have changed their feelings toward him. Gibson is one of the few former players that can step onto the court at the Garden to resounding cheers from the crowd.

After being waived by New York in the 2022 offseason, Gibson signed a one-year deal with Washington. He averaged 3.4 points and 1.9 rebounds per game last season, but his real impact came off the court. Gibson's voice is always one of the most important ones in the locker room, and his presence led to another one-year deal with the Wizards.

Right before the 2023-24 season began, Washington waived Gibson as it trimmed the roster down to 15 players. A month later, Gibson is still a free agent. He could decide to retire and begin his coaching career, or he could sign with an interested team.

Bleacher Report's Eric Pincus listed the top 10 free agents, including Gibson, and selected the team each player should sign with. For the veteran, Pincus selected Indiana as Gibson's landing spot.

B/R suggests Pacers as landing spot for former Knicks fan favorite

On Nov. 15, the Pacers agreed to a buyout with Daniel Theis so that he could sign with the Clippers. With Theis gone, Pincus believes Indiana should consider signing Taj Gibson, but that isn't the only reason why.

"Most of the Pacers' big men are younger, such as Obi Toppin, Jalen Smith, Isaiah Jackson and even forward prospect Jarace Walker. The team is also optimistic that it will be able to compete among the top eight in the Eastern Conference, and Gibson is the right mentor to help this exciting but still inexperienced squad."

- Eric Pincus, Bleacher Report

If this were to happen, Gibson would reunite with Obi Toppin. It'd give Gibson a chance to not only take Toppin under his wing again, but also Indiana's other young players. As Pincus wrote, the Pacers are aiming for a playoff seed, and having Gibson's wisdom and experience would be invaluable.

Hopefully, if what Taj Gibson wants is to sign with another team, that's what happens. He's no longer the player that he once was, but at this point in his career, his impact off the court is what's most important.