The Knicks did very interesting work in clogging up the frontcourt with three players that just have to be considered overpaid. The beloved former Chicago Bulls starting big man Gibson didn’t land in an ideal situation here either. New York has one team that is thriving right now and one that is tanking.
There is a tangible difference as to why Gibson is ranked in a better spot on this list than Portis. While Portis was looking for around $14-$16 million in free agency this summer and did get it, Gibson got paid too and could thrive in the short-term with another storied big market franchise. The Knicks could also move Gibson to a contender if need be come playoff time next year.
Portis isn’t likely to thrive as much with the Knicks since his role will come with more expectation than Gibson. But Gibson was still rather productive with the Timberwolves last season, posting a player efficiency rating of 17.8 and 10.2 points per game and 6.5 rebounds. He also showed a lot of durability by playing in 70 games.
Yet, the problem for Gibson is that he should have landed with a contender this season and still earn a good base salary. He still offers enough value and a good veteran voice in the locker room to help a playoff contender make a deeper run. He will not get to help a playoff contender as long as he’s playing for the Knicks.