Minnesota Timberwolves: Top defensive lineup

Taj Gibson

Although Taj Gibson’s best days may be behind him, he was still an effective signing to help facilitate Thibodeau’s defense. Like Jimmy Butler, Gibson is familiar with Thibs as a coach and can provide veteran leadership as well as playoff experience.

During Gibson’s time in Chicago, he operated mainly as a role player off of the bench. His main duty during his time with the Bulls was to play solid defense as a sixth man. After Gibson was first signed by the Wolves, Brian Sampson summarized Gibson’s defensive play well:

"“Gibson’s defensive reputation proceeds him to the land of 10,000 lakes. He’s most remembered for his first five years in Chicago when he put up a combined 16.6 defensive wins shares (3.32 average) and 10.4 (2.08 average) defensive box plus/minus.” Since then, however, his defensive play has slipped significantly. During the past three years, he’s averaged 2.67 win shares and 1.03 defensive box plus minus.”"

It is questionable whether or not Gibson will be the lockdown defensive power forward he used to be, but he will definitely be a consistent defender and provide plenty of rebounding on the offensive and defensive glass. His 6-foot-9 size shouldn’t be a concern at power forward, he plays much bigger and is not afraid to take on guys a couple inches taller than him.