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Taj Gibson Season Review – The Glue Guy

By Tamberlyn Richardson

Mar 27, 2017; Dallas, TX, USA; Oklahoma City Thunder forward Taj Gibson (22) helps up guard Russell Westbrook (0) during the game against the Dallas Mavericks at the American Airlines Center. The Thunder defeat the Mavericks 92-91. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports
Mar 27, 2017; Dallas, TX, USA; Oklahoma City Thunder forward Taj Gibson (22) helps up guard Russell Westbrook (0) during the game against the Dallas Mavericks at the American Airlines Center. The Thunder defeat the Mavericks 92-91. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports /
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Oklahoma City Thunder
Mar 27, 2017; Dallas, TX, USA; Oklahoma City Thunder forward Taj Gibson (22) helps up guard Russell Westbrook (0) during the game against the Dallas Mavericks at the American Airlines Center. As a result the Thunder defeat the Mavericks 92-91. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports /

After another Sam Presti magic trick Taj Gibson arrived in OKC quickly assimilating into a 2-way benefit on court and a leadership role off it for the Thunder

Although Taj Gibson played just 23 regular season games and 5 playoff games for the Thunder his value cannot be under stated.

Long adored in Chicago his departure elicited an outpouring of thanks from grateful Bulls fans. Considering he was never considered the star and spent years coming off the bench despite his obvious defensive talents it speaks to his work ethic and likeability.

Part of the Tom Thibodeau regime, Gibson was a victim of timing. Initially he ranked behind Carlos Boozer. This due to Boozer and Rose’s ability to drive teams insane with the perfect pick and roll.  For most of his tenure the Bulls squad also featured Joakim Noah who (still healthy regularly led his team in assists and triple-doubles. Yet, it was the ever reliable Gibson who Thibs trusted in late game situations.

Oft cited as a player who was patiently waiting his turn to ascend to a bigger role Gibson endured coaching changes, roster shuffles and strategy shifts.  He did it all with nary a complaint or public outing of his displeasure. For as often as Gibson was noted as potential trade bait, as long as Thibs was at the helm Taj wasn’t going anywhere.

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