Taj Gibson Returns to His Roots with Knicks
The New York Knicks have brought back one of their own, as veteran center/forward Taj Gibson has agreed to a nonguaranteed deal for the rest of the season. Gibson, who was born and raised in Brooklyn, played for the Knicks from 2019 to 2022 before signing with the Washington Wizards in the offseason. However, he was waived by the Wizards in November after appearing in only four games.
Gibson will provide some much-needed depth and leadership for the Knicks, who are currently fourth in the Eastern Conference with a 17-11 record.
Gibson is a versatile defender who can play both the power forward and center positions, and he has a strong relationship with Knicks head coach Tom Thibodeau, who coached him in Chicago and Minnesota. He is also a fan favorite in New York, as he is known for his hustle, toughness, and community involvement.
Gibson averaged 5.4 points and 5.6 rebounds in 57 games for the Knicks last season, and he has career averages of 8.7 points and 5.9 rebounds in 12 seasons in the NBA. He will join a frontcourt rotation that includes Julius Randle, Mitchell Robinson, Nerlens Noel, and Obi Toppin. The Knicks announced the signing of Gibson on December 13, 2023.