Grizzlies add veteran Taj Gibson amid rebuild

The Grizzlies are going old school. Very old school.

Memphis is signing 40-year-old veteran Taj Gibson to a two-year deal, per Shams Charania of ESPN. The second season is expected to be non-guaranteed.

The move became official after the Grizzlies finalized a buyout with Kyle Anderson, who is headed to the Timberwolves.

This isn’t about numbers. It’s about presence.

Gibson appeared in 37 games with Charlotte last season, averaging 2.9 points and 3.2 rebounds in limited minutes. He hasn’t played yet this year. But around the league, he’s long been viewed as a pro’s pro — steady, respected, no nonsense.

Memphis could use that.

The Grizzlies have pivoted hard into rebuild mode. Desmond Bane is gone. Jaren Jackson Jr. was dealt earlier this month. Injuries have piled up. The frontcourt, in particular, has been thin.

Enter Gibson.

If he appears in a game, this will mark his 17th NBA season. He’d also become just the 35th player in league history to suit up at age 40, according to Charania.

This is less about production and more about tone. Young locker room. New direction. Veteran voice.

Sometimes rebuilding teams need a grown-up in the room. Memphis just signed one.