Indiana Pacers: 5 goals for T.J. Leaf's rookie season

Indiana Pacers: 5 goals for T.J. Leaf’s rookie season

NEW YORK, NY - JUNE 22: T.J. Leaf walks on stage with NBA commissioner Adam Silver after being drafted 18th overall by the Indiana Pacers during the first round of the 2017 NBA Draft at Barclays Center on June 22, 2017 in New York City. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Mike Stobe/Getty Images) /

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SACRAMENTO, CA – MARCH 19: TJ Leaf #22 of the UCLA Bruins dunks the ball against the Cincinnati Bearcats during the second round of the 2017 NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament at Golden 1 Center on March 19, 2017 in Sacramento, California. (Photo by Jamie Squire/Getty Images) /

3. Add bulk/strength to his frame

One of the most common deficiencies that young frontcourt players have is an underdeveloped physique, and T.J. Leaf is no exception to that rule.

Leaf is very thin at 6’10”, 225 pounds. He was able to cover for that disadvantage in college, but that task will become more difficult now that his opponents will typically be bigger and stronger than he is.

As discussed in a previous piece, this is a relatively easy issue to address given the resources that are provided to NBA players. Strength and conditioning coaches, nutritionists and first-class workout facilities will all be available to Leaf.

If a young player has the discipline to eat right and the work ethic to put in quality time in the weight room, an NBA-ready body will be the result.

Leaf was a good rebounder and showed a nice post game at UCLA, but in order to do work around the basket in the NBA, he’ll need to add muscle so he can compete physically on the inside.

Fortunately, T.J. Leaf has the reputation as someone who wants to be a great player and has the work habits to back it up. The odds seem very good that Leaf will be able to add some bulk and strength to his frame this coming year.

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