NBA Draft 2017 Prospect Watch: T.J. Leaf

Strengths

Leaf’s game is built around his knowledge of the game. He plays hard and knows how to maneuver within the offense. He averaged 2.4 assists per game, which is pretty impressive for a forward in college basketball, as many point guards struggle to hit three assists per game.

Leaf shot an impressive percentage from the three-point line, but didn’t shoot enough to give team’s an adequate sample size. His UCLA team was loaded with talent, and as is the case with most Kentucky teams, some prospects have to play within the system more than showing their individual skill-set off. As a result, teams will need to decide if Leaf’s unorthodox shooting form will fly in the NBA.

He did hold his own scoring in the paint, as he was able to back down weaker opponents and score through contact. He played well in both matchups with Kentucky, but struggled against many of the better defenses on the Bruins schedule.

That being said he did shoot 64 percent from the field on the season, and if you look at the highlights from his conference play, Leaf made a lot of contested shots in the paint. He’s got a great touch around the basket. He’s able to take the contact, and time his release to shoot the ball at the exact moment when he’s able to squeeze it through his defender’s arms.

Leaf is not the most talented defender, but puts adequate effort into putting a body on his man and contesting shots. Opponents can push Leaf around in the paint, but with his obvious understanding of the game, he’s able to stand with stronger opponents.