Taj Gibson: Named opening night starter

The veteran was in competition with Bobby Portis and Nikola Mirotic for the starting gig but began to emerge as the favorite near the end of the preseason. As anticipated, he’ll start alongside Robin Lopez, but both Portis and Mirotic will factor into the rotation, and it wouldn’t be a surprise if coach Fred Hoiberg experimented with different lineups as the season progresses. Gibson is the best rebounder and defender of the three, but both Mirotic and — to a lesser degree — Portis are better floor spacers.