2017 NBA Mock Draft: What if the Lakers don’t take Lonzo Ball?

Even with center Jarrett Allen in the fold as the No. 15 pick, the Portland Trail Blazers could still use some additional frontcourt depth to help out their bench situation. UCLA’s TJ Leaf is a 6-foot-10 power forward who would give the Blazers a different look for their bench lineup and potentially be able to play a bit of small ball center in some lineups.

Leaf’s primary skill is his scoring ability. He’s capable from attacking in the post or in the mid-range with a nice face up game, but he also seems to have a reasonably developed 3-point shot. Leaf made 46.6 percent of his outside attempts this season, although it was on an incredibly low number of attempts, so that number will certainly normalize at a much lower level. However, that shooting prowess can help space the floor for guards like Damian Lillard and C.J. McCollum.

The key for Leaf, if he wants to develop into an NBA level starter, will be his defensive ability. The UCLA product will need to make great strides as he’s not a good rim protector and struggles with lateral mobility defending the pick-and-roll. Otherwise, Leaf will likely be a backup who relies on his offense to carry his NBA career.

Learn more about TJ Leaf at The Step Back.