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2017 NBA Mock Draft: New York Knicks and the value of the point guard

By Maxwell Ogden

Mar 7, 2017; Brooklyn, NY, USA; North Carolina State Wolfpack guard Dennis Smith Jr. (4) controls the ball against the Clemson Tigers during the second half of an ACC Conference Tournament game at Barclays Center. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports
Mar 7, 2017; Brooklyn, NY, USA; North Carolina State Wolfpack guard Dennis Smith Jr. (4) controls the ball against the Clemson Tigers during the second half of an ACC Conference Tournament game at Barclays Center. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports /
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Jan 19, 2017; Los Angeles, CA, USA; UCLA Bruins forward TJ Leaf (22) dribbles against Arizona State Sun Devils guard Shannon Evans II (11) in the second half at Pauley Pavilion. Mandatory Credit: Richard Mackson-USA TODAY Sports
Jan 19, 2017; Los Angeles, CA, USA; UCLA Bruins forward TJ Leaf (22) dribbles against Arizona State Sun Devils guard Shannon Evans II (11) in the second half at Pauley Pavilion. Mandatory Credit: Richard Mackson-USA TODAY Sports /

22. Brooklyn Nets: T.J. Leaf, UCLA Bruins

Position: Forward
Age: 20 (4/30/1997)
Height, Weight, Wingspan: 6’9.75″, 222 pounds, 6’11”
2016-17 Slash Line: .617/.466/.679
2016-17 Season Averages: 29.9 MPG, 16.3 PPG, 8.2 RPG, 2.2 ORPG, 2.4 APG, 1.1 BPG, 0.8 3PM

No player selected at No. 22 overall is guaranteed to have star potential, and any conflicting reach is a true gamble. Having said that, the Brooklyn Nets would be wise to play it safe by finding a prospect whom they believe can be a legitimate building block for whomever they sign in free agency or select with an eventual lottery pick.

Embracing that as the approach at No. 22 overall, the Nets select the best player available and the most intriguing prospect on the board: versatile UCLA Bruins forward T.J. Leaf.

Leaf is a dynamic offensive player with the ability to drive the lane, convert from 3-point range, crash the offensive boards, and go to the post. Standing at 6’10” and 222 pounds with a 6’11” wingspan and fluid athleticism, the potential exists for the hybrid to become a matchup nightmare at power forward.

Some are concerned with Leaf’s inconsistency on defense, but the Nets should show no fear knowing head coach Kenny Atkinson’s proficiency in player development.

Leaf has the ability to face up and either knock down a jump shot or drive, which projects to make him the ultimate pinch post playmaker. He’s an excellent passer for a player his size, as well, and could become the Al Horford of Atkinson’s offense in Brooklyn.

Leaf may not be worth a pick from any and every organization, but Atkinson and the Nets would be the perfect squad to help Leaf realize his potential as a star-caliber player.

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