Lakers Rumors: Possible Big Man Targets for the Lakers with the Rockets Pick

TJ Leaf – UCLA

While this may be highly unlikely, if TJ Leaf somehow falls to 28th overall there should be no doubt in Magic Johnson’s mind in taking Leaf. Not only is he a great asset to the team, he is a former teammate to a potential future Laker. We all know the storied Lonzo Ball rumors, and should the Lakers snag up Ball, they should also bring in Leaf.

While they are deep at the power forward position, Leaf would bring an interesting dynamic to the table. The Lakers lack a true stretch forward, something that is seemingly key to succeed in today’s NBA. Leaf would provide just that, and quite frankly, with the right coaching he could even see the transition to small forward.

Standing in at six-foot-ten Leaf would give the Lakers perhaps the biggest small forward duo in all of the league. There is no reason he cannot make the transition either, as he shoots 46% from the three-point line and possesses a similar frame to Brandon Ingram with a bit more strength.

Overall, Leaf averaged 16.3 points, 8.2 rebounds, and 1.1 blocks per game at UCLA. If the Lakers do haul in Lonzo Ball it would make him more comfortable to play alongside a familiar face. Whether Leaf stays at power forward or moves to small forward, would be completely up to Luke Walton. All I know is that Leaf is too good of a talent to pass up at 28th overall.