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Taj Gibson: Your guide to the OKC Thunder’s secret weapon

By Heather Koontz

Feb 24, 2017; Oklahoma City, OK, USA; Oklahoma City Thunder forward Taj Gibson (22) speaks to the media prior to action against the Los Angeles Lakers at Chesapeake Energy Arena. Mandatory Credit: Mark D. Smith-USA TODAY Sports
Feb 24, 2017; Oklahoma City, OK, USA; Oklahoma City Thunder forward Taj Gibson (22) speaks to the media prior to action against the Los Angeles Lakers at Chesapeake Energy Arena. Mandatory Credit: Mark D. Smith-USA TODAY Sports /
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Taj Gibson
Feb 24, 2017; Oklahoma City, OK, USA; In addition, Los Angeles Lakers forward Julius Randle (30) drives to the basket against Oklahoma City Thunder forward Taj Gibson (22) during the second quarter at Chesapeake Energy Arena. And, Mandatory Credit: Mark D. Smith-USA TODAY Sports /

What he offers

At the age of 31 (he turns 32 on June 24), he’s the second oldest player on the Oklahoma City Thunder roster. At 36, Nick Collison is his only senior.

Gibson stands at 6’9″, making him one of the tallest on OKC’s roster, and packs 236 pounds onto his lean frame.

There’s no denying he brings experience, talent, and power to a young Oklahoma City roster. But, that’s not all Gibson has to offer. Most noteworthy is the fact Gibson can provide much needed mentorship to the younger players, aiding in their development and offering valuable peer coaching.

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Now, with Thunder veteran Nick Collison’s future unclear, Gibson’s mentorship is even more valuable.

Not to mention, he has been to the playoffs six times. In fact, Gibson’s taken the postseason trip nearly every year of his NBA career. That kind of experience is priceless for a roster as young and arguably inexperienced as the Thunder.

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