It’s the relationship that doesn’t quit.
Taj Gibson, the veteran center and Tom Thibodeau favorite, signed his fifth contract with the Knicks, this time a 10-day deal, his agent Mark Bartelstein confirmed to The Post.
“Yeah, he happened to be in the backyard, so we thought he knows us,” Thibodeau said with a laugh before the Knicks’ 118-103 victory over the Jazz. “No, we just love having him around. I thought the last time he was here, he was instrumental in three wins. So having a guy that knows our players, knows our system and is tough, I think that goes a long way.”
The 38-year-old was waived by the Knicks just about three weeks ago before his standard contract was guaranteed, and now is coming back on the heels of Julius Randle’s shoulder injury.
“To be honest with you, no,” Gibson said when asked if he expected a call after Randle went down Saturday. “I didn’t know. I was just more worried about and hoping that Julius wasn’t seriously hurt. Then I got the phone call; early this morning, literally. I was working out [in New Jersey] literally on the treadmill when I got the phone call to come get a physical. That’s how quick the NBA can change.”
Gibson entered Tuesday’s game to a standing ovation with 29 seconds left after fans at the Garden chanted, “We Want Taj” with the Knicks’ starters still in the game, up 21, in the closing minutes.
He pumped his fist to the crowd from the end of the bench.
Gibson’s 10-day contract spans five games. Then the Knicks have to decide whether to give Gibson a second 10-day deal, waive him, or sign him for the rest of the season.
Two 10-day deals is the max.
Gibson, who is open about his desire to pursue coaching after his playing career is over, has played for Thibodeau with three different franchises (the Bulls and Timberwolves, too).
Thibodeau appreciates Gibson’s leadership and loyalty to relaying his messages to the rest of the roster.
Gibson was signed in December for center insurance following the injury to Mitchell Robinson, and was thrust into action when Jericho Sims suffered a sprained ankle.
“In this game you just have to be ready for whatever,” Gibson said. “You can’t shy away from it and just take it on the chin and try to get ready. Whenever my number is called, I’m trying to help the team however I can, if it’s cheering or whatever. That’s been my motto since I’ve been here.”
— Peter Botte contributed to this report