Recruited to compensate for injuries to Mitchell Robinson but also Jericho Sims, Taj Gibson didn't expect to play so much. But Monday, against the Bucks, he proved that he still had something under the hood, and Tom Thibodeau was full of praise for his favorite interior.
“Taj's defensive activity was incredible! His commitment gives us energy” assures the Knicks coach, after the former Bulls player contributed 3 rebounds, 3 assists and 3 blocks in 15 minutes. Significant playing time due to Isaiah Hartenstein's foul problem.
“He has a little more important role than he initially thought he would have,” confirms Josh Hart. “He’s great in his ability to come in and play his style. It's clear he's been close to Thibs for a long time. So he knows the system, but his ability to get rebounds and communicate is huge for us. »
Aged 38, Gibson is far from finished, and he has found his role model: “I’m the Kurt Thomas of this team!” “. For the youngest, Kurt Thomas had two stints with the Knicks. The first, from 1998 to 2005, and he was an important element of the rotation, especially in the race for the Finals. By his side ? Rick Brunson, Jalen's father!
The second, in 2012, at age 40, to help the Knicks win the Atlantic division title. At the time, Carmelo Anthony's teammates lost in the conference semi-finals to the Pacers.
