Knicks Releasing Taj Gibson Is Tough, But Smart Move To Make

New York Knicks center Mitchell Robinson had been one of the most dominant centers in the NBA through early December. He was a monster on the offensive glass and the anchor of the team’s defense. When it was announced that he had to undergo ankle surgery, it was a huge blow to the team.

In need of some help in the frontcourt, the Knicks turned to a reliable NBA veteran; Taj Gibson. A favorite of head coach Tom Thibodeau, Gibson was signed as frontcourt depth to become the No. 3 center, a role that was previously occupied by Jericho Sims, who was going to get his chance in the rotation with Robinson sidelined.

Sims’ spot in the rotation didn’t last long as he injured his ankle during a jump ball, landing on Anthony Davis as he came down. That thrust Gibson into the rotation for spot minutes behind Isaiah Hartenstein.

While Gibson had his moments, such as a blocked shot against former MVP Giannis Antetokounmpo on Christmas, it was clear that he wasn’t going to be a viable option for the team’s rotation. Gibson had a few tricks up his sleeve still, but the Knicks were losing the minutes he was playing by a wide margin.

His last appearance on the court was December 30th against the Indiana Pacers. The Knicks were severely short-handed for the game as they had completed a trade with the Toronto Raptors earlier that afternoon.

Immanuel Quickley and RJ Barrett were on their way north of the border with OG Anunoby, Precious Achiuwa and Malachi Flynn coming to New York. The Knicks now had another center they could play ahead of Gibson and Sims was healthy enough to jump him in the rotation as well.

With three healthy big men on the roster, Gibson’s services were no longer needed. With contracts becoming guaranteed around the NBA earlier this week, the Knicks opted to waive Gibson and open up a roster spot.

“Taj stepped up in a big way to help our team this season and has had an immeasurable impact on our organization both on and off the court throughout his time with the Knicks,” team president Leon Rose said in a statement.