T.J. Leaf
Page updated as of 4/8/2020, scouting report written by Alan Lu.
2017 rankings were finalized on 6/22/2017.
Height: 6-9
Weight: 215
College: UCLA
Classification: Freshman
Birthdate: 4/30/1997
2017 Top 100 Prospect Rank: 21
Projected Draft Range: Mid to Late 1st Round
2017 NBA Draft: Round 1, Pick 18 by the Indiana Pacers
Pros:
Strong finisher around the basket
Excels at scoring on the move
Very good scorer off the dribble
Good low post scorer
Adequate shooter, has stretch big potential
Fairly good playmaker
Fairly good rebounder
Decent defensive player
Decent shot blocker
Gifted athlete
Smart player that has a good feel for the game
Cons:
Can be reluctant to take jumpers
Can play too carelessly on offense, which can lead to turnovers
Can be out of position defensively
Not an elite shot blocker
Does not collect enough steals
May need to improve his strength
Summary:
T.J. Leaf is an athletic, skilled combination forward that has a variety of skills that could help him excel at the next level. This year, he is off to a strong start, as a productive freshman season could help him end up being a first round pick for the upcoming draft.
Leaf possesses solid scoring skills. He can score in all sorts of ways, as he will move off the ball to garner scores around the basket. Plus, he also can score quickly off the dribble from the high post, as well as on jump hooks from the low post.
Also, he is a good shooter, especially for a player his size. He can knock down plenty of jumpers from all over the court to space the floor for his team. His size and shooting skills can give opponents fits, as he can shoot over the top of most defenders to get buckets.
Plus, Leaf is also a solid playmaker. He is a very good passer that sees the floor well, as he will make accurate passes to set up a wealth of scores for his teammates. Leaf also handles the ball well, as he will push the ball up the floor after grabbing defensive rebounds to set up fast break scoring opportunities for his team.
He also is a good defensive player. Leaf generally will hedge out quickly on screens, as he will allow his teammates enough time to get back to their man to defend jumpers. Also, he will contest shots using his length to force misses. But sometimes, he can get beat off the dribble to allow scores on occasion.
In general, T.J. Leaf may have a solid all-around game that may allow him to thrive in the NBA. While he may be overshadowed by a higher profile teammate, he can contribute in many ways, as he is like a tall point forward that plays well on both ends of the floor. With his skill set, Leaf could likely be a first round pick in 2017.
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