The Washington Wizards are on the verge of filling a void for a third center. According to Shams Charania of The Athletic, Taj Gibson is planning to sign with the Wizards after he clears waivers on Sunday. Gibson was waived by the New York Knicks on Friday.
Washington was in need of a third center after Thomas Bryant signed with the Los Angeles Lakers earlier this week. In turn, Gibson gives the Wizards an upgrade as far as experience and veteran leadership.
The 37-year-old Gibson will slot behind Kristaps Porzingis and Daniel Gafford on the depth chart. He’ll also be able to give tutoring to other front court mates such as Rui Hachimura, Kyle Kuzma and Anthony Gill.
Gibson is a 13-year pro. A first-round draft pick in 2009, Gibson played his first eight seasons with the Chicago Bulls. He also has played for the Oklahoma City Thunder, Minnesota Timberwolves and most recently the Knicks.
He played the last three seasons with the Knicks. His production on the court diminished in New York. But, his role helping head coach Tom Thibodeau help set the culture within the team was far more prudent.
Last season on the court, Gibson appeared in 52 games. He averaged 18.2 minutes and had 4.4 points and 4.4 rebounds per game. He shot 51.8% from the field, including 39.5% from three.
Gibson is more suited for the role of being a third center. Bryant is young, just 24 years of age. He was the starting center for the Wizards prior to tearing his ACL in January 2021. In Los Angeles, Bryant will get the chance to start. Gibson, meanwhile, will be comfortable at this stage of his career to be a support system for Gafford and Porzingis while giving spot minutes.
