Taj Gibson is a name that had been floated around in the offseason as someone likely to be traded by the Chicago Bulls, but nothing really came out of.
So what was the reason behind the Taj Gibson trade talks?
Gibson was seen by many as fading and dispensable. A lot of that hinged on the fact that the Bulls had a formidable frontline as well as that Gibson was damaged goods. However, Gibson has proven to anyone that when healthy, he is still an asset for the Bulls or any team for that matter.
Have the Bulls curtailed on that plan (assuming they did have any)?
Gibson's flexibility and mobility makes him an asset if used properly. With most teams applying the small ball philosophy (no thanks to the Golden State Warriors' success), the Bulls could technically do that as well.
However, Gibson's sane contributions on defense and offense makes him a reasonable choice to play as center, in the same way that Draymond Green did for the Warriors last season.
Gibson has shown he can defend off screens without compromising the middle. Aside from that, he does his share of dirty work, cleaning the boards and putting up garbage points.
The Bulls may have overlooked that niche, but all is not too late since Taj is still around. But the question is do they keep him?
It all depends on the future of their frontline. Gibson has made a living coming off the bench, but he could be starter material if given the chance. That chance could be with the Bulls or teams who would be interesting in getting him.
Seeing head coach Fred Hoiberg's system, Gibson is a fit. Again, it is his flexibility. He doesn't score crazy or dazzle with dunks. He just gets the job done and such has certainly been forgotten.
If the Bulls trade him, it will be their loss; the team getting him will potentially get more mileage out of him.
